Research
1. Strategy
The focus of our research has been genes known to control tumorigenesis and drug response. Forward genetics is used to elucidate the function of genes that are known to be involved in human cancer. Reverse genetics is employed to search for the genes associated with tumor development and therapeutic response.2. Platform
- Patient-Derived Organoids (PDOs)
PDOs recapitulate genetic and epigenetic changes in human cancer. In an intensive collaboration with JFCR Hospital, we establish various PDOs from surgical specimen. They are surrogates for patients and are used for cancer biology and pre-clinical studies
- Genetically Engineered Mouse Models (GEMMs)
GEMMs provide the unique opportunity to explore cancer as a systemic disease. They are being evaluated in genetics, genomics and imaging.
3. Project
- Cellular diversity of cancer
Cellular diversity is being analyzed by multiple omics including single cell analysis and by histopathological studies. The hierarchy and plasticity are validated in genetics and pharmacogenetics.
- Development of chemotherapy
Distinct responses of PDOs to chemotherapeutic agents represent the outcome of cancer patients. The goal is to develop innovative treatments of human cancer and to obtain biomarkers to predict outcomes.
- Mechanisms of metastasis and recurrence
Metastasis and recurrence are the major cause of cancer-related death, and we focus on their diverse mechanisms. Our original orthotopic transplantation models of colorectal cancer are the powerful research platform.
- Mouse models for human cancer
We have developed a number of mouse models of human cancer. They provide valuable opportunities to explore cancer as a systemic disease. Tumor microenvironment and tumor immunity are our current focus of the project.