Research

SOX2 is a stem cell gene, Yamanaka reprogramming factor, and oncogene in numerous types of cancer. Our goal is to understand: 1) the function of SOX2 in prostate development, gland maintenance, and regeneration; 2) the function of SOX2 in prostate stem cells and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); and 3) the role of SOX2 in prostate cancer initiation, progression, and drug-resistance. Our ultimate goal is to exploit SOX2 to create new strategies to prevent, stage, and treat prostate BPH and cancer.

(Image from Kregel et al., 2012)

MEIS1 and MEIS2 are transcription factors that work alongside HOX proteins to regulate genes involved in organismal development, and have key roles as mediators of cancer initiation and progression. In prostate cancer, loss of MEIS protein expression is frequent, and germline HOXB13 mutations are frequently located within the MEIS-interacting domain. Our goal is to understand: 1) the function of MEIS proteins in prostate development; and 2) the function of MEIS/HOX interaction in prostate cancer initiation and metastatic progression. Our ultimate goal is to utilize our understanding of MEIS function to create new strategies to prevent, stage, and treat prostate cancer.

(Image from Bhanvadia et al., 2018)