Tumor Biology and Microenvironment Program Themes

Theme 1: To identify molecular, cellular determinants of malignancy (metastasis drivers)

Our investigators study key signaling pathways involved in tumorigenicity, tumor cell phenotypical plasticity, and tumor cell drug response (metastasis operatives).

Theme 1 Accomplishments 

Theme 2: To identify and exploit the underlying mechanisms of tumor metastasis (operatives)

Our investigators study the function and underlying mechanisms such as the extracellular proteolysis/signaling network that enable tumor cells to adapt to and eventually overcome the varying microenvironments.

Theme 2 Accomplishments 

Theme 3: To identify and exploit stromal reactivity and host immunity to tumor progression (host response to metastatic tumors)

Our investigators study the interaction of tumor cells with mesenchyme and innate immune cells. We also identify, evaluate and utilize adaptive cellular and humoral immune responses to develop immunotherapy approaches.

Theme 3 Accomplishments 

The Latest From Karmanos Cancer Institute

News

Anxious Cancer Patient Celebrates the End of Treatment and Being a Proton Therapy Milestone

After a suspicious area showed up on Cindy Gancarz’s routine mammogram, she was called back in for a breast ultrasound. “They seemed to be okay wi...

Read More

IN THE NEWS: Cancer Prevention – Timely Life Saving Information

WMYD TV20 On the last day of National Cancer Prevention Month in February, Boris Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, CEO and president of the Barbara Ann K...

Read More

Dr. George Yoo Named Among Over 250 in Becker’s 2026 Chief Medical Officers to Know

For the third consecutive year, George Yoo, M.D., FACS , chief medical officer (CMO) at Karmanos Cancer Hospital, was again listed on  Becker...

Read More
News

WWJ | What You May Not Know About HPV and Cervical Cancer Screening

Listen Now

94.7 WCSX | Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Listen Now

WSGW | Risks of Pancreatic Cancer

Listen Now