The goal of the Experimental Therapeutics Program is to integrate novel therapies and technologies developed in the laboratory with clinical applications for treating human cancers. The scientific aims of the program are 1) to develop and test novel, molecularly-targeted drugs, gene and drug delivery systems; 2) to develop and utilize in vitro and in vivo screening models; and to 3) identify molecular targets for new investigational drugs. Program members have expertise with the following:
- Small molecule inhibitors
- Gene therapy (tumor suppressor genes, siRNA, mircro RNA, ncRNA, interleukins)
- Drug delivery systems (polymers, dendrimers, nanomaterials, liposomes, viral vectors)
- Chemistry (organic, medicinal, synthetic)
- Animal models
- Photodynamic therapy
- Natural products
- Molecular imaging techniques and novel contrast agents
- Novel pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetics analysis tools
- Cell signaling and cell death mechanisms
The Program is developing a preclinical drug development and testing platform for streamlining a product development pipeline to help achieve the aims above. Program members have the opportunity to develop and test novel concepts via seed-grant funding mechanisms that enable them to generate data to compete for federal funding. Additionally, exchange of scientific information and opportunities to collaborate for team science approach occurs via monthly meetings, seminars and invited guest lectures, and an annual retreat.
.jpg?sfvrsn=2 "ET Members (10 2011)")