Hypoxia (low oxygen) is arguably the most well characterized aspect of tumor biology that has yet to be exploited therapeutically. The Warfel lab strives to identify and understand the signal transduction pathways that promote therapeutic resistance and the aggressive phenotype associated with tumor hypoxia. We are particularly interested in elucidating HIF-1-independent mechanisms that control survival, angiogenesis, and cell migration in hypoxia. Our long-term goal is to identify new targets and translate new therapeutic strategies to oppose tumor hypoxia and improve patient care. Using a combination of biochemistry, live cell imaging, and in vivo models, we are understanding how to exploit hypoxia as a target for cancer therapy.
University of Arizona Cancer Center | Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine
