SKINNER LAB
WELCOME TO THE SKINNER LAB HOMEPAGE
ABOUT
We are a translational radiation oncology laboratory focused on upper aero-digestive tract malignancies, particularly head and neck cancer, at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in beautiful Pittsburgh PA.
OUR RESEARCH
Our laboratory tries to identify new, clinically targetable biomarkers of resistance to radiation, using "big data" approaches to clinical specimens as well as in vivo screening techniques to generate novel targets for study. These targets are then further investigated in vitro, to elicit insights regarding mechanisms of radioresistance. We aim to provide data for the rational design of clinical trials using agents that are currently under investigation to minimize the time from bench to bedside.
TUMOR ANALYSIS
We utilze multiple "-omics" approaches and tumor immune profiling to identify tumors that are resistant to radiation and other forms of standard therapy.
IN VIVO SCREENING
We utilize in vivo screening approaches using shRNA libraries of "druggable" targets in multiple xenograft and syngeneic tumor models. These screens are used to identify sensitizers to conventional radiation as well as for potential targets to improve the abscopal effect following stereotactic radiation.
IN VITRO DISCOVERY
Interesting targets and pathways identified from tumor analysis and screening are further examined mechanistically in vitro to elucidate pathways of resistance to therapy.
CONTACT US
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
Research Pavilion
5117 Centre Avenue
Suite 2.6a
Pittsburgh, PA 15213-1863
(412) 623-3275
