2013 UALC
Christine Fillmore, PhD
Children's Hospital Boston
Research Project:
Epigenetic inhibitors in personalized therapy for Brg1 and EGFR mutant lung tumors
Summary:
Chemotherapy is generally not considered curative for lung cancers, however, there is promise in combining chemotherapy with targeted therapies. Dr. Fillmore is investigating inhibiting epigenetic targets (proteins and genes that control expression of many other genes and cellular pathways). However, given the genetic complexity of lung cancer, it is important that these drugs be tested in models that mimic lung tumors found in patients. Dr. Fillmore hopes to also uncover mutations that can be used as biomarkers to predict efficacy of combining these inhibitors with chemotherapy, personalizing treatment for each patient.