My main interest is in development of glioma cell lines and analyzing their profiles through mouse xenograft models. I am collaborating with Dr. Karen Pollok in regards to various projects. The overall objective of one of the projects is to improve upon the standard-of-care for GBM treatment by modulation of the p53-HDM2 signaling network. We plan to develop therapeutic regimens and validate intracellular target modulation mediated by inhibition of HDM2-protein interactions during exposure to DNA-damaging agents. We also plan to assess outcome of modulating HDM2-dependent signaling to increase efficacy of TMZ- and/or radiation-mediated DNA damage in ectopic GBM xenograft models. I am the co-director of the Signature Initiative to Cure Glioblastoma Multiforme. We have continued to organize the Brain Tumor Working Group and a number of GBM collaborative projects are emerging among various investigators at the IU Simon Cancer Center. The mision of the Signature Initiative involves: 1. Interrogate the molecular mechanisms of glioma biology and develop interventions that result in improved duration and quality of life for our patients. 2. Stimulate consistent and productive exchange of ideas between clinicians and basic scientists while employing bench-to-bedside and bedside-to-bench strategies to generate and prioritize scientific questions. 3. Provide infrastructure and mentorship needed to successfully compete for external funding. 4. Engage the community through patient advocacy to positively impact brain cancer patient outcomes and enhance philanthropic initiatives.
M.Sc. - Mayo Graduate School, Rochester, MN 2003-2005
Fellowship - Yale University, New Haven, CT 2002-2003
Residency - Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 1999-2002, 2004-2005
M.D. - University of Southern California, San Diego, CA 1993-1997