University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI)

Overview

A strong foundation in basic research is crucial to obtaining a better understanding of the mechanisms of cancer. Basic research also provides a source of novel targets and ideas for new strategies for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The broad goal of the Molecular and Cellular Cancer Biology Program (MCCCBP) is to gain new insights into the molecular and cellular basis of neoplastic transformation.

Research focuses on several essential molecular processes that are disrupted in cancer cells. The major research areas include genome stability and DNA repair, cell-cycle control, apoptosis, gene regulation, signal transduction, stress responses, and mitochondrial physiology. Because these subjects are overlapping and intimately linked together, program members generally work in more than one of these sub-areas. Through collaboration and communication, research areas within the MCCCBP are linked to other UPCI programs for translation of novel basic insights into development of new targets, drug discovery, and recognition of biomarkers - and ultimately, application within the clinically oriented programs focusing on disease sites.