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Goals and Objectives

The Cell and Molecular Biology Research Program aims to drive transformative discoveries in cellular and molecular realms, translating them into improved patient care through programmatic interactions.

The central goal of the program is to deepen our understanding of cancer development and progression from multiple perspectives. This provides a foundation for identifying new biomarkers and therapeutic targets, which are then translated to improve patient care in Georgia.

Program Objectives

The Cell and Molecular Biology Research Program has four scientific themes:

  1. Cancer cell metabolism aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic alterations in cancer cells to exploit for novel therapeutic interventions.
  2. Cell survival and death mechanisms aims to understand the mechanisms by which cancer cells evade cell death and to identify novel therapeutic approaches to promote cell death.
  3. Mechanisms of invasion and metastasis aims to identify the key mediators of tumor growth and metastasis, and discover mechanisms that drive tumor cell adhesion, communication, invasion, and metastasis.
  4. Gene regulation aims to decipher the basic mechanisms by which genetic or epigenetic influences regulate gene expression and contribute to oncogenesis.

Career Development and Community Engagement

Cell and Molecular Biology Research Program leaders foster a rich research training environment contributing to the promotion of biomedical scientific careers in underrepresented groups from middle school through college. Our research maintains a focus on Winship’s catchment area priorities through strong engagement with Winship's Office of Community Outreach and Engagement.