Robert Wilson (KOEHLER LAB)

Small Molecule Screening Against the Oncogenic Pluripotency Factor LIN28

Oncogenic signals frequently converge on a set of core regulatory factors which confer the phenotypic plasticity required for cancer cell survival and proliferation. These factors are established cancer dependencies, but are phenomenally difficult to drug. Recent work has clarified the role of LIN28 in stabilizing these factors and as a contributor to oncogenic reprogramming. This work aims to develop assays for the discovery of LIN28 - small molecule interactions and to apply these new ligands to the development of chemical probes for LIN28.

Molly Bird (YAFFE LAB)

Investigating the Role of MK2-regulated RNA Binding Proteins in Tumor Response to Genotoxic Therapy

For many cancers, DNA-damaging agents are front-line therapy. Unfortunately, most patients will develop resistance during their treatment. Recently, post-transcriptional regulation of mRNAs, controlled by RNA-binding proteins, has been increasingly recognized as playing a critical role in this resistance. In this project, we aim to identify MK2-regulated RNA-binding proteins that regulate the stress response. This work can be used to inform optimal target and DNA-damaging agent combinations to enhance tumor response.