Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality. Substantial breakthrough discoveries, including the identification of lung cancer-specific genetic drivers (e.g., EGFR mutations, EML4-ALK fusion genes) and the development of molecular inhibitors of these pathogenic factors, have improved outcomes for patients with advanced-stage lung cancer. However, lung cancer cells eventually acquire resistance to these molecular inhibitors, resulting in progressive disease. Dr. Manabe’s [Connie and Bob Lurie Fellow] research focuses on protein compounds formed by the self-assembly of oncogenic fusion proteins such as EML4-ALK. These compounds initiate a signaling pathway that causes abnormal cell proliferation in cancer. Dr. Manabe will explore the newly discovered structures of signaling proteins with the goal of developing molecular therapies that enhance precision medicine strategies and improve the control of lung cancer. Dr. Manabe received both his MD and PhD from Keio University School of Medicine.
Damon Runyon Researchers
Meet Our ScientistsTadashi Manabe, MD, PhD
Project title: "Characterization of oncogenic kinase signaling by membraneless cytoplasmic protein granules"
Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Named Award: Connie and Bob Lurie Fellow
Award Program: Fellow
Sponsor(s) / Mentor(s): Trever G. Bivona, MD, PhD
Cancer Type: Lung
Research Area: Signal Transduction