Research

Fig. 1. We utilize genomics to identify the genetic basis by which Merkel cell carcinoma cells can be targeted by the patient’s own immune system. 

Goal: The goal is to elucidate T cell circuitry, identify disease relevant molecular mechanisms, and develop clinically relevant biomarkers and therapeutics.

Approach: To accomplish these goals, our lab employs two scientific approaches to investigate T cell biology.

Computational Oncology.

  • We utilize genomics and orthogonal high dimensional assays to elucidate the molecular features of each patient’s cancer. We then perform iterative analyses across a disease cohort to identify molecular features that occur more often than expected by chance. We then functionally validate the putative drivers using human and mouse models.
    • Multiple examples. To learn more, please read about our discoveries in CTCL, CBCL, melanoma, and MCC.
  • We interrogate patient samples to identify molecular features that predict disease prognoses and responses to therapies.
    • Coming soon!
  • The goal is to identify novel potentially curative therapeutic strategies for otherwise intractable diseases.
  • We leverage these discoveries to launch clinical trials. Coming soon.

Immunogenomics.

  • We integrate human genetics, functional genomics, and orthogonal high dimensional assays to resolve the cellular and genetic mechanisms governing immune homeostasis.
  • These approaches have led to the following discoveries:
    • Novel skin-resident cells with a link to a Behind the Paper
    • Novel molecular mechanisms governing T cell activation
    • Novel molecular mechanisms governing T cell differentiation. Coming Soon!
  • We leverage these discoveries to identify novel therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases.

“In God we trust, all others [must] have data.”
― Bernard Fisher