Research:

Keywords: Tumor immunology; Cancer disparities; Tumor microenvironment; Ancestry-specific drivers; Translational therapeutics

Research Activities

A.I. Machine Learning, Computational Biology

Summary of Research Program

My research explores how ancestry and tumor biology drive cancer outcomes, with a focus on health disparities in prostate, breast, and pancreatic cancers. Using genomic, epigenetic, and spatial multi-omics approaches, we identify ancestry-specific mechanisms of tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. Active programs include: (1) spatial profiling of macrophage–endothelial–mesenchymal niches in tumors, (2) development of macrophage-targeted therapeutics to enhance immune checkpoint blockade, (3) gene-signature development for distinguishing aggressive cancer subtypes, and (4) translational partnerships advancing biomarkers and immune-targeted therapies into clinical testing. Beyond macrophages, our drug discovery portfolio targets a spectrum of tumor-suppressive immune cells that blunt anti-tumor responses, including regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, with the goal of restoring immune balance within the tumor microenvironment. By combining discovery science with therapeutic innovation, our lab aims to deliver precision medicine approaches that improve survival for diverse patient populations.