Overall Goal
Our ultimate goal is to design and test novel small-interfering RNA (RNAi)-and microRNA-based therapies for advanced and drug-resistant cancer patients. We use several biochemical and molecular approaches, and cutting edge technologies to identify and targeting cancer promoting signaling molecules. Our laboratory works in three major research lines:
Mechanism of drug resistance of ovarian cancer:
In this project, we investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer, with a particular focus on platinum-based treatments. Our research examines how dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs such as CASC10, and key oncogenic regulators including MMP3 and the c-MYC oncogene contribute to tumor survival, invasion, proliferation, and therapeutic resistance. We also investigate the role of extracellular vesicles in mediating intercellular communication within the ovarian cancer tumor microenvironment, where they facilitate the transfer of molecular cargo that promotes drug resistance, metastasis, and immune evasion. In addition, our work explores how chemotherapy-resistant cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to generate exploitable therapeutic vulnerabilities. By integrating gene regulation, extracellular vesicle biology, tumor microenvironment interactions, and cellular metabolic adaptation, this project aims to identify novel biomarkers and develop RNA-based and targeted therapeutic strategies to overcome drug resistance and improve patient outcomes.
Targeting Lipocalin-2 in inflammatory breast cancer:
This project focuses on targeting Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), a protein that promotes tumor progression and aggressiveness in inflammatory breast cancer. The team uses silico screening of small-molecule libraries to identify potential inhibitors that can directly block Lipocalin-2 function. In parallel, they develop a targeted nanoparticle formulation by engineering liposomes decorated with Herceptin (trastuzumab) to selectively deliver siRNA against LCN2 into HER2-positive cancer cells. This dual strategy, combining computational drug discovery with antibody-guided RNA delivery, aims to suppress Lipocalin-2 activity, reduce tumor growth and metastasis, and provide a more precise and effective therapeutic option for this aggressive breast cancer subtype.
Development of drug delivery systems for CRISPR-based therapies for liver cancer
This project focuses on developing advanced drug delivery systems for CRISPR-based therapies in liver cancer by formulating liposomes and lipid nanoparticles capable of transporting gene-editing components into tumor cells. Specifically, the team designs carriers to deliver either Cas9 protein complexed with guide RNA (RNP) or mRNA encoding Cas9 along with gRNA, enabling precise genome editing of cancer-related genes. By optimizing these nanocarriers for stability, targeting, and efficient cellular uptake in liver tumors, the project aims to achieve safe and effective gene modification as a novel therapeutic strategy for liver cancer.