|
Thyroid Tumor Invasion and Metastasis
Our research is focused on elucidating the biochemical
pathways involved in invasion and metatasis of thyroid
tumors.
Genetic Profiling of Thyroid Cancers
Our group is investigating the genetic profiles of thyroid
tumors and correlating these profiles with clinical outcomes. Our
goal is to develop diagnostic tests
that will inform the clinical decision as to whether
a small tumor is likely to progress into an invasive
cancer. Where tumors evidence a benign genetic
profile, patients might be spared surgery and
lifelong hormone replacement therapy. The Identification
of specific genetic profiles will also help in the
development of new therapies.
Genetic Studies of Familial Non-Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Approximately five-percent of non-medullary thyroid cancers
are caused by a genetic defect that is passed down through
families. Thus far, this gene has not been identified. UCSF
researchers are conducting genetic studies in collaboration with
the Department of Human Genetics in order to identify the
responsible gene or genes. Finding the specific gene(s) will both
aid diagnosis and drug development and improve survival.
|
