Damon Runyon Researchers

Hedgehog (Hh) and Wnt signaling pathways are required for proper development during the formation of an embryo. These pathways can also be activated abnormally in adult tissue and have been implicated in multiple cancers. Several small molecule inhibitors and antibodies targeting Hh or Wnt signaling are being tested in clinical trials, but a detailed understanding of these processes is lacking. Dr. Li will apply cell and structural biology approaches to dissect the signaling mechanisms at an atomic level. These mechanistic details will help identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention and provide valuable information regarding antibody and compound design.