Cancer Research Trainee Spotlight
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Western University is home to many talented research trainees who conduct research across various city-wide university and hospital facilities. They play an integral part in oncology research.
The featured trainees are all in various stages of training and were randomly selected amongst the members of the Centre for Translational Cancer Research, who act as mentors and supervisors throughout their training. The trainees were asked to complete the following questions.
What is your undergraduate/master's degree and from which institution:
Rober Abdo *(Jan/25, rabdo3@uwo.ca)
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), The University of Aleppo, Syria; Master of Medical Science, The University of Western Ontario.
4th year PhD Candidate, Pathology & Laboratory Department. Supervisor: Dr. Qi Zhang, London Health Sciences Centre and Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, and Shun-Cheng LI, London, Western University
Project: My research focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving brain metastases, with a current emphasis on those originating from breast cancer. Using state-of-the-art techniques, I aim to uncover how cancer cells adapt to the brain's unique environment and identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat these metastases. This work has the potential to significantly improve the outcomes for patients suffering from this challenging condition.
Key Techniques Used: I utilize advanced single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, proteomics and phosphoproteomics to map gene expression at a cellular level. By combining bioinformatics with in-vivo validation, I decode complex molecular interactions, enabling precise identification of potential therapeutic targets and understanding tumor-stromal cell interactions.
Why this project?: Brain metastases remain one of the most devastating complications of cancer, yet they are poorly understood. I chose this project to contribute to advancing our knowledge and developing targeted therapies that could bring hope to patients and families facing this condition.
Why Western?: Western University provides a supportive research environment with cutting-edge facilities and renowned expertise in cancer research, making it an ideal place to pursue my PhD.
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Ryan Au *(Jan/25, rau23@uwo.ca)
BSc. in Medical Physics, McMaster's University and MSc. in Physics, Toronto Metropolitan University
4th year PhD Candidate in Medical Biophysics, Supervisor: Drs. Aaron Ward and Glenn Bauman (Baines Imaging Research Laboratories, VFCC)
Project: My research focuses on developing different tools that could help radiologists more accurately identify prostate cancer on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is the key imaging modality used to diagnose prostate cancer, but small cancers may be missed by radiologists. Therefore, we are using eye tracking technology to understand how radiologists currently use MRIs to identify prostate cancer, and identify specific search patterns that lead to more accurate cancer identifications. We are also using artificial intelligence to map cancers seen on high resolution images of prostate tissue onto MRIs so that radiologists can better understand how MRI findings relate to the underlying tissue.
Key Techniques Used: magnetic resonance imaging, digital whole-mount histopathology, generative artificial intelligence, and remote eye tracking.
Why this project?: I am very interested in developing and implementing various tools that would be beneficial in clinical settings. This project allows me to pursue these interests by developing novel artificial intelligence systems and bringing eye tracking technology (commonly used in computer gaming) into the medical setting to ultimately improve clinical workflows and enable more accurate cancer diagnoses.
Why Western?: Dr. Ward's research program provided a unique opportunity to work within a cancer centre where I could get immediate input and feedback from radiation oncologists. Having the privilege of being so close to the frontlines ensures everything I am developing will be useful within the clinic.
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Natasha Sophia Bruce *(Jan/24, nbruce9@uwo.ca)
MSc. Research Biology in Anatomy and Cell Biology
1st year Masters Candidate in Anatomy and Cell Biology, Supervisor: Dr. Trevor Shepherd
My Project: My research focuses on understanding ovarian cancer spread and overcoming chemotherapy resistance. We identified LKB1 as a critical molecule that supports ovarian cancer cell survival and spread. In partnership with the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, we are developing drugs to inhibit LKB1. My project tests these drugs on ovarian cancer cells and patient samples to evaluate their ability to reduce cell viability and metastasis. Ultimately, we aim to combine these LKB1 inhibitors with chemotherapy to improve outcomes for women with ovarian cancer.
Key Techniques Used: Drug sensitivity assay, Cell viability, Western blotting, Reattachment assays and in general a lot of cell culture work.
Why this project?: I have always been personally invested in ovarian cancer research, so when the opportunity to work on this project arose, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.
Why Western?: I chose to go to Western University because of its excellent research opportunities.
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Nitara Fernando *(Dec/24, nferna47@uwo.ca)
BSc. in Medical and Biological Physics, McMaster University
3rd year PhD Candidate in Department of Medical Biophysics, Supervisor: Dr. Paula Foster, Imaging Pathogens for Knowledge Translation (ImPaKT) Facility, Western University
Project: My research is focused on the development of Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) for imaging of cancer metastasis. Metastasis causes over 90% of tumour-related deaths, often spreading first to nearby lymph nodes. The sentinel lymph node (SLN) is the first node or group of nodes cancer will spread to; thus, its detection is crucial for determining cancer spread and guiding treatment. Current SLN mapping uses a Technetium (99m-Tc) tracer and blue dye, but these have drawbacks like short tracer half-life and radiation exposure. Magnetic SLN localization with superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) particles avoids radiation and has a longer lifespan, however, it currently relies on a hand-held magnetometer during biopsy and does not allow for preoperative imaging. We propose developing MPI Lymphography, a new imaging technique using MPI to directly detect SPIOs, providing clear and quantifiable SLN imaging before surgery. This project aims to optimize MPI SLN imaging in mice prior to its clinical application.
Key techniques used: cell culture, mouse handling/injections, MPI imaging, Horos image analysis, histology
Why this project?: This project was very exciting to me because of its novelty and potential clinical impact. Investigating MPI lymphography in preclinical models is a critical step toward translating this technology to clinical practice. Our collaborators at Magnetic Insight are translating MPI to the clinic by engineering the first human-sized head and neck MPI imager and we can anticipate that MPI will be used in patients in the near future!
Why Western?:I chose to pursue my PhD at Western University's Medical Biophysics Department because of its interdisciplinary research opportunities at the intersection of physics, biology, and engineering. In the Foster Lab, I have the privilege of working in one of the few labs globally equipped with an MPI scanner—and the only one in Canada. This access positions us at the forefront of advancing this technology for in-vivo cell tracking applications.
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Danial Hadi MBBS/MD *(Feb/25, Danial.Hadi@lhsc.on.ca)
Why Western: Western University programs are focused on innovation and translational research, encouraging researchers to express their ideas with freedom, whilst providing an excellent overall environment to flourish.
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Oneeb Hassan (*Dec/24, ohassa2@uwo.ca)
BSc in Medical Sciences, Western University
2nd year Master's Degree in Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Supervisor: Dr. Chris Pin, (Baker Center for Pancreatic Cancer, VFCC)
Project: Dysregulation of calcium (Ca2+) signaling is a critical factor in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Aberrant Ca2+ signaling through pathways like store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) leads to elevated cytosolic Ca2+ levels. This increase in cytosolic Ca2+ is implicated in several key processes, including proliferation, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells. Our previous research has identified SPCA2C, a pancreas-specific protein, as a potential regulator of SOCE activation. To further elucidate its role in pancreatic pathology, we have generated a knockout mouse model and are currently investigating the impact of SPCA2C deficiency on pancreatic cancer initiation and progression.
Key Techniques Used: Live-cell calcium imaging, IF/IHC, RT-PCR and western blotting.
Why this project?: Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal disease (5-year survival rate < 12%) that is growing in prevalence. Identifying novel therapeutic targets will hopefully increase patient survival.
Why Western:I spent time doing research in this lab during my undergrad and enjoyed the lab dynamic. Also, having the opportunity to work in the hospital and see patients who can benefit from my research was very motivating.
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Morgan He *(Jan/25, mhe52@uwo.ca)
MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo and BSc in Electrical Engineering, University of California, San Diego
1st year PhD degree in the Department of Computer Science. Supervisor: Dr. Pingzhao Hu, Western University
Project: My research involves developing artificial intelligence (AI) models to analyze medical datasets. I have focused on developing and using computing algorithms to help with tasks like detecting and highlighting cancer in medical images. For example, using several mammogram datasets, I have trained AI models to locate and segment tumors within the images. This work aimed to provide an additional tool for healthcare professionals, facilitating the interpretation of voluminous data. The objective was to streamline the interpretation process, potentially accelerating it and reducing human error. In addition, I am using large AI models to analyze Breast cancer histology datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) to study the cancer gene mutation status. My research aims to incorporate new AI technology to address critical challenges in the medical field.
Why this project?: I chose this project to advance my skills and applications in the medical research field. My background was mainly in computer science and electronics and I have interest in using these to incorporate AI deep learning to assist in real world applications.
Why Western?: I chose Western University for the strong research program and to work with Dr. Pingzhao Hu in his lab. I am able to focus on incorporating machine learning and statistics for multimodal health data in precision medicine with multidisciplinary and collaborative team projects in AI and statistical genetics.
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Megan Hong *(Dec/24, mhong32@uwo.ca)
BSc. in Medical Sciences, Western University
4th Year PhD Candidate in Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Supervisor: Dr. Saman Maleki (VFCC)
Project: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are immunotherapeutics that remove the “brakes” off the immune system to boost anti-tumour immune responses. One factor that influences the effectiveness of ICIs is the integrity of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) pathway in cancer cells. Defects in this pathway can promote T-cell activation, rendering tumours more susceptible to anti-tumour immune responses. In various cancers, patients with MMR-deficient tumours respond better to ICIs, such as anti-PD1 therapy, than those with MMR-proficient tumours. While anti-PD1 therapy is approved for patients with advanced MMR-deficient solid tumours primarily as second-line therapy, only 30-40% of these patients respond to treatment. This highlights the need to understand the mechanisms underlying resistance to anti-PD1 therapy and develop novel strategies to treat non-responding patients. However, it is unclear whether MMR deficiency can affect earlier stages of anti-tumour immune responses, such as the activity of innate immune cells like macrophages. Macrophages play a crucial role in shaping anti-tumour immune responses, as they can either promote or suppress T-cell activation. My research will use pre-clinical models to explore how MMR deficiency affects the phenotype and function of macrophages in tumours and how this can play a role in the response to various ICIs. These findings will provide valuable insight into mechanisms underlying ICI response in MMR-deficient tumours and enable the selection of appropriate ICI therapies for these patients. Furthermore, this can lead to the development of combination therapies that target both innate and adaptive immune responses to improve patient outcomes.
Key Techniques Used: Flow cytometry, immune cell/tissue culture, magnetic cell isolation, mouse handling, ELISA
Why this project?: I have always been interested in understanding the role of the immune system in the context of disease progression. This project offered an exciting opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between the host immune response and cancer, with the goal of developing more effective immunotherapies to improve patient outcomes.
Why Western?: I chose Western University for its strong research programs and research centers spanning on-campus and hospital sites, offering a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge translational research.
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Saqib Khan *(Jan/25, saqib.khan@lhsc.on.ca)
MD, Aga Khan University Hospital
Clinical Fellow, Western University- Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (VFCC) at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). Supervisor, Daniel Breadner MD. FRCPC.
Project: My research focuses on transforming cancer care by optimizing treatment strategies through evidence-based innovation and a deeper understanding of clinical decision-making, mainly focusing on lung and upper gastrointestinal malignancies. I evaluate cutting-edge therapies, such as antibody-drug conjugates versus conventional agents like docetaxel, to improve outcomes in advanced non-small cell lung cancer. I am investigating treatment consistency and variability in esophageal and gastroesophageal cancers to uncover patterns influencing recovery, quality of life, and survival. My work also explores the factors shaping therapy choices, including why clinicians prefer certain immune checkpoint inhibitor-based regimens in advanced lung cancer. Beyond these efforts, I am leading innovative projects under grant review, including a comparison of systemic and chemo-radiotherapy strategies for locoregional esophageal tumors, a study on the safety and clinical impact of Moringa Oleifera to maintain nutritional status during treatment, and a mixed-methods investigation into how immunotherapy response predictions influence patient decisions in thoracic cancers, alongside with my supervisor. My research aims to refine treatment paradigms, improve outcomes, and empower patients in their cancer journey by bridging clinical insights with real-world practice.
Why this project?: I've always been drawn to thoracic cancers due to their complexity and the profound impact they have on patient's lives. These cancers are not only challenging to treat but also often diagnosed at advanced stages, making the need for innovative therapies even more pressing. The opportunity to improve treatment outcomes and enhance these patients' quality of life has always been a driving force in my research.
Why Western?: I chose Western University for its innovative research program in thoracic oncology, which is at the forefront of pioneering treatments and therapies. Its strong association with the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre offers exceptional opportunities to collaborate with leading experts, access cutting-edge resources, and contribute to impactful clinical research, making it an ideal place to advance my expertise and drive meaningful contributions in cancer care.
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Katelyn MacNeil *(Dec/24, kmacne9@uwo.ca)
BSc. in Microbiology & Immunology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, NS
6th year PhD Candidate in Microbiology & Immunology, Supervisor: Dr. Joe Mymryk (Head & Neck Translational Cancer Unit, VFCC)
Project: The star of my research project is human adenovirus, which has the distinction as the first human virus shown to cause cancer, albeit in a rodent model. While there are no examples of adenoviruses as causative agents of human cancers, studying how the viral oncogene E1A, produced during adenovirus infection, regulates gene expression has provided invaluable insights into cancer development. In particular, I focus on how E1A hijacks two of our cellular proteins, CDK7 and CDK9, to promote viral gene expression. These findings on what the E1A oncoprotein targets could also inform us about pathways relevant to cancer.
Key Techniques Used: Co-immunoprecipitation, qPCR, luciferase assays, and western blot analysis.
Why This project?: I loved that this project would give me the opportunity to learn a variety of different research techniques and that it combined elements of virology, biochemistry, and genetics.
Why Western?: I came to Western University for Dr. Mymryk’s research program because I liked that it focused on the many different targets of the viral E1A oncoprotein.
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Julia Mason *(Jan/25, jmason49@uwo.ca)
BSc. in Chemical Biology, McMaster University
6th year PhD Candidate, Supervisor: Dr. Len Luyt, Deparment of Chemistry, and Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University.
Project: My research focuses on the development of novel peptide-targeting imaging agents for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging of specific cell receptors over-expressed in a variety of cancer types, more specifically prostate cancer. These projects have focused on the synthesis of peptide libraries to optimize their targeting ability and improve biodistribution. These peptides incorporate a fluorine-containing small-molecule which can be radiolabelled with a radioactive fluorine-18 atom, used specifically for PET imaging. PET imaging allows for non-invasive imaging to locate cancer biomarkers to provide accurate and early diagnoses and patient stratification for therapy.
Key Techniques Used: Small molecule synthesis, solid-phase peptide synthesis, high-performance liquid chromatography, bioassays, cell culture, radiochemistry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy.
Why this Project?: I originally chose this project to be able to synthesize novel compounds and run their initial evaluation toward the development of targeted cancer imaging agents. Like most people, cancer has affected many family members, and I wanted to play a role in progressing cancer research, where this project would enable detection and treatment monitoring. I quickly dove into the exciting world of radiochemistry and the field's wonderful applications. It is a privilege to be part of this growing field, continuously seeing media headlines of new radiotherapeutics in clinical trials and patient treatment.
Why Western?: I chose Western University for its research programs, in particular having the opportunity to advance my skills in Dr. Luyt's lab. While the research is chemistry focused, its interdisciplinary nature allows students to establish a wide range of skills from small molecule synthesis to bioassays to animal imaging.
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Zhaocheng Nie *(Jan/24, znie25@uwo.ca)
BSc, Honours specialization in Genetics and Biochemistry, Western University
4th year PhD Candidate, Department of Biochemistry, Supervisor: Dr. Murray Junop
Project: Interstrand crosslink (ICL) is a covalent linkage formed between two opposing strands of DNA, and by linking the two DNA strands it prevents strand separation, hinders essential cellular processes, and eventually leads to cell death. The ICL-damaged part of the DNA needs to be properly repaired, and SNM1A is one of the nucleases implicated to be involved in the ICL repair pathway. More interestingly, SNM1A can perform two different nuclease activities (exonuclease and endonuclease activity) using the same active site, which makes it challenging and also fascinating to learn about its exact role in the repair process. Understanding SNM1A and in general the ICL repair pathway will greatly contribute to improving cancer therapies that involve using ICL-inducing agents to target rapidly proliferating cancer cells.
Why this project?: The clinical problem presented here is something that can be simply stated, but remains complicated to solve. The fact that this seemingly "obvious" problem lacked any effective, low-cost solution told me that this would be an exciting project to navigate throughout my PhD.
Why Western?: Western offers one of the few CAMPEP accredited PhD programs in Ontario, which will enable me to continue to pursue a career as a medical physicist. Additionally, the program at Western allowed me to conduct research directly in the cancer centre, providing more hands-on opportunities to learn about how we treat patients here in London.
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Noor Rizvi *(Feb/25, mrizvi9@uwo.ca)
Bachelor of Life Sciences Honors, Queen University
2nd year MSc. Candidate, Department of BioChemistry, Western University. Supervisor: Vanessa Dumeaux, PhD.
Project: Our study focuses on predicting the behaviour of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, a non-invasive breast cancer. We aim to identify genetic markers that may predict disease aggression, response to radiation, and the likelihood of recurrence. This could enable personalized treatment plans, reduce unnecessary intervention, and identify alternatives for those resistant to current therapies.
Key Techniques Used: My research primarily involves computational techniques, such as data analysis using statistical models and bioinformatics tools for data processing.
Why this Project?: I’ve always been passionate about breast cancer research. Working on projects like Every Breast Counts with Women’s College Hospital introduced me to the power of advocacy in improving cancer outcomes. But beyond advocacy, I am equally drawn to the research that drives meaningful change behind the scenes. That’s what excites me most about this project—it allows me to build upon that advocacy work and contribute to research that, ultimately, can lead to advancements in personalized medicine and improved health outcomes for all breast cancer patients,
Why Western?: I chose UWO because of the amazing research opportunities in cancer studies and the chance to be part of a meaningful project. Plus, the beautiful campus and great facilities made it an easy choice!
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Jeri Spilberg *(Feb/25, jspilber@uwo.ca)
BSc. Molecular Biology and Genetics, Honours, University of Guelph
1st year Master's Candidate, Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University. Supervisor: Alison Allan PhD
Project: Breast cancer is currently the second leading cause of death in Canadian women. The majority of these deaths occur due to metastasis to organs such as the lungs, liver, brain and bone. Metastasis is the spread of cancer cells from the initial site/organ to a secondary site/organ and can be characterized as localized, regional, or distant. Previous research has shown that when cancer cells metastasize, they tend to migrate to specific organs, known as organotropism. I am currently focusing on studying integrin expression in breast cancer cells. Integrins are crucial cell adhesion proteins that enable cells to bind with each other and with the extracellular matrix. This research is particularly significant because preliminary data suggest that integrins may play a role in driving breast cancer metastasis. The hope is that learning more about the role of integrins in metastasis will contribute to a better understanding of metastatic mechanisms and aid in developing stronger treatments.
Key Techniques Used: Cell culture in normal and hypoxic conditions, Chemicon Alpha/Beta integrin-mediated cell adhesion assay.
Why this Project?: Cancer biology has always been a big interest of mine, and when the opportunity to work on a project that will advance cancer research arose, I jumped at the opportunity. This research will provide a greater understanding of the role that integrins play in organ-specific metastasis and provide a strong foundation for additional pre-clinical in vivo studies. Overall, I hope this research will help the future of breast cancer treatment.
Why Western?: The vibrant community, academic prestige, and lab that I'm working in were tremendous factors in my decision. I am proud to be a Mustang and look forward to my time here!
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Edward Wang *(Feb/25, ewang225@uwo.ca)
BASc in Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of British Columbia.
5th year MD/PhD Program, 3rd year PhD, Department of Biomedical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. Supervisors: Sarah Mattonen PhD and Pencilla Lang MD PhD.
Project: Radiation therapy is an effective form of cancer treatment. Advances in technology now allow doctors to utilize high dose radiation in treating multiple tumour sites in patients with advanced cancer. Creating a safe and effective radiation treatment plan can be a time-consuming process, especially for complex treatment of multiple targets. In our work, we are developing artificial intelligence models to help radiation oncologists decide what treatment to prescribe, and to automate parts of the treatment planning pipeline.
Key Techniques Used: We primarily develop generative artificial intelligence models which are mostly coded in the Python programming language. Our data consists of medical images acquires from patients undergoing treatment.
Why this Project?: My clinical interest is oncology, and my technical/scientific interest is artificial intelligence. This project is a perfect fit!
Why Western?: I chose Western for the opportunity to work with Dr. Mattonen. Our lab is located inside the cancer centre, which enables very close collaboration with the the clinical team, ensuring that our work is always focused towards true unmet clinical needs.
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Jack Webb *(Dec/24, jwebb47@uwo.ca)
BMSc, Pathology & Pharmacology, Western University
4th year PhD Candidate, Supervisor: Dr. Trevor Shepherd (Translational Ovarian Cancer Research Unit, VFCC)
Project: research focuses on epithelial ovarian cancer, a deadly disease often diagnosed late and resistant to chemotherapy. I study ULK1, a protein crucial for cancer cell survival and spread, as it regulates autophagy, disease progression, and mitochondrial health. By targeting ULK1, we aim to uncover new therapies that disrupt cancer cells' survival mechanisms, slow their spread, and improve treatment outcomes.
Key Techniques Used: Molecular analysis, drug treatments, fluorescence/luminescence assays, proteomics analysis, fluorescence reporters, transfections, 3D cell culture
Why this project?: My passion for understanding cancer biology and ovarian cancer cell survival and spread inspired me to expand on our lab's previous findings and further explore ULK1’s role in ovarian cancer progression and discover new treatment strategies.
Why Western?: I chose Western University for its exceptional research opportunities and supportive mentorship, which have been pivotal in advancing my ovarian cancer studies and developing my skills as an educator and academic leader.
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Alyssa Wu *(Jan/25, awu344@uwo.ca)
BSc. Life Sciences (Honours), McMaster University
1st year PhD Candidate, Department of Biochemistry. Supervisor, Dr. Shawn Li, Department of Biochemistry, and Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University.
Project: My research investigates STAT3, a key transcription factor in cancer, using a comprehensive multi-omic approach to understand its role in tumour progression. Through CRISPR-Cas9-mediated STAT3 knockouts in various cancer cell lines, we analyze changes in protein expression, phosphorylation patterns, and secreted factors using advanced mass spectrometry techniques. Our studies reveal that STAT3 regulates far more targets than previously known and influences crucial cancer-related processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell adhesion, and immune response. By combining proteomics, phosphoproteomics, secretomics, and spatial analysis of the tumour microenvironment, we aim to uncover novel STAT3-regulated pathways and identify potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. This research is particularly significant as it explores compensatory mechanisms activated in STAT3's absence, providing insights that could lead to more effective cancer therapies.
Key Techniques Used: Mass spectrometry-based proteomics and phosphoproteomics, bioinformatics analyses (differential expression, pathway enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction network mapping), large-scale database mining, 2D/3D cell culture, immunofluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry, western blots, ELISA, RT-qPCR.
Why this Project?: Motivated by critical knowledge gaps in cancer biology, I chose this project to uncover the intricate signalling underlying common oncogenic pathways using cutting-edge technologies, aiming to develop more effective targeted therapies. This research not only advances our understanding of cancer mechanisms but also challenges me to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts that could ultimately improve patient care.
Why Western?: Western University offers exceptional opportunities to study cancer biology through hands-on experience with cutting-edge mass spectrometry and molecular biology techniques, perfectly aligning with my interest in understanding how post-translational modifications and oncogenic signalling pathways drive cancer progression at the molecular level.
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George Xie *(Feb/25, gxie27@uwo.ca)
BMSc, Honours Specialization in Biochemistry of Infection and Immunity, Western University.
1year PhD Candidate, Department of BioChemistry, Western University. Supervisors: Kun Ping Lu PhD and Xiao Zhen Zhou PhD
Project: My research focuses on the development of Pin1 inhibitors for cancer therapy, notably in aggressive cancers such as triple-negative breast cancer, glioblastoma, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Previous research in our lab has shown that inhibition of Pin1 in combination with currently approved standard therapies can render these aggressive cancers eradicable by overcoming drug resistance pathways. Through structure and activity guided drug design, we aim to develop novel more potent and specific Pin1 inhibitors, then to apply these inhibitors in various cancer models to investigate their anticancer effects.
Key Techniques Used: Western Blot, Fluorescence Polarization, Immunofluorescence Microscopy, RT-qPCR.
Why This Project?:When I first joined the lab for my undergraduate thesis, I was immediately drawn to the Pin1 protein, discovered by my supervisors, and its role in so many diseases, including Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, and even viral infection. Given its high therapeutic potential and applicability, I am very excited to work on this project.
Why Western?: I chose Western University for its strong research program, notably working with my supervisors Dr. Kun Ping Lu and Dr. Xiao Zhen Zhou. Since our lab researches cancer, neurodegeneration, and infection, I'm able to gain experience in many fields, and have abundant opportunities for collaboration with the other cutting-edge research taking place at Western.
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Timothy Yau *(Jan/25, timothy.yau@lhsc.on.ca)
BMSc. in Medical Sciences at Western University
4th Year PhD Candidate in Medical Biophysics, Supervisor: Dr Stewart Gaede
Project: For lung cancer patients, tumours are known to move with patient breathing. When treating cancers with radiation, this motion needs to be accounted for to ensure we do not uncessarily irradiate the surrounding healthy organs and tissues. My research focuses on the development of treatment techniques that would enable our machines to have the radiation beam track and follow the tumour during the treatment. This would allow for a more percise radiation delivery that would minimize treatment side effects and increase patient outcomes.
Key Techniques Used: 4D-CT and wide-volume dynamic CT (ie. volumetric 4D-CT) for lung tumour motion assessment, generative AI (ie. GAN models) for tumour tracking on x-ray images, biomechanical models (finite element modelling of the lung) for tumour tracking and time-series AI (RNN models for tumour motion prediction) for tumour tracking prediction from only surface detection, and external beam radiotherapy (VMAT, IMRT, DCA, etc.) for treatment delivery techniques.
Why this project?: The clinical problem presented here is something that can be simply stated, but remains complicated to solve. The fact that this seemingly "obvious" problem lacked any effective, low-cost solution told me that this would be an exciting project to navigate throughout my PhD.
Why Western?: Western offers one of the few CAMPEP accredited PhD programs in Ontario, which will enable me to continue to pursue a career as a medical physicist. Additionally, the program at Western allowed me to conduct research directly in the cancer centre, providing more hands-on opportunities to learn about how we treat patients here in London.
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Komila Zakirova (*Jan/25, kzakirov@uwo.ca)
HBSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Guelph
6th year PhD Candidate in Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Supervisor: Dr. Fred Dick (VFCC)
My project: My research focuses on the dormancy and spread of ovarian cancer spheroids, which are three-dimensional clusters of cancer cells. These spheroids are the primary cause of treatment resistance and disease relapse in patients diagnosed with high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC). I investigate the molecular mechanisms that govern spheroid dormancy, with a particular focus on the roles of Netrin and Wnt signalling pathways. Our lab has identified these pathways as crucial for spheroid survival through genome-wide CRISPR screenings conducted in HGSC cell lines. To establish the function of survival genes from these pathways, I employ CRISPR-mediated gene editing alongside the cell culture model of dormancy that allows the replication of spheroid formation in vitro, similar to what is observed in ovarian cancer patients. Additionally, I perform xenograft experiments in immunocompromised mice to examine the dissemination of cancer cells and to model responses to therapeutic agents, enhancing our understanding of tumour behaviour and treatment effectiveness in vivo. Ultimately, my research aims to discover new avenues for developing targeted therapies to treat ovarian cancer and improve patient outcomes.
Why this project?: I have always been interested in the field of cancer biology, and this project offers an excellent opportunity to learn molecular biology techniques and enhance my critical thinking skills, which are essential for my development as a scientist.
Why Western?: I chose Western University primarily because of its innovative research programmes. I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to engage in advanced research in Dr. Dick’s lab, where pioneering projects and collaboration foster a dynamic environment for both academic and professional growth.
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