PhD
Professor, Pharmacology
UNC-Chapel Hill
Cancer Cell Biology Program
Area of Interest
My lab studies the role of ubiquitin signaling in cell cycle, genome stability and cancer. We are specifically interested in how these ubiquitin signaling networks contribute to breast and ovarian malignancy. A major focus is on mechanisms underlying cell cycle transitions, including exit from mitosis and entry into S-phase. Both are governed by the APC/C, an essential cell cycle E3 ubiquitin ligase that both promotes mitotic exit and restrains S-phase entry. We recently identified a deubiquitinase that antagonizes APC/C substrate degradation, and which is recurrently amplified in breast cancer. In addition, we have shown that APC/C can be further inactivated via the oncogenic PI3k-AKT signaling cascade. Ongoing studies to diagnostically map substrates using computational methods have revealed unforeseen contributions to cell physiology, and potential consequences of its dysfunction in disease.
Awards and Honors
- Associate Professor with tenure, American Cancer Society Research Scholar Award
- Susan G Komen Career Catalyst Research Award
- Jimmy V Foundation-Scholar Award
- Damon Runyon Postdoctoral Fellowship Award
News and Stories
UNC Lineberger faculty catch a ride on Tar Heel Bus Tour
UNC Lineberger members were among the more than 70 UNC-Chapel Hill faculty and senior administrators along for the ride on a trip to connect with North Carolinians across the state.
Scientists discover key enzyme in breast cancer proliferation, treatment resistance
Basal-like breast cancer is the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat subtype of breast cancer, and it largely overlaps with the triple-negative classification of the disease. Patients are in dire need of improved therapies that attack the underlying cellular features of these types of breast cancer. Now scientists at the University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer …
