Sarcoma and Molecular Biology Laboratory (SMBL)

The Sarcoma Molecular Biology Laboratory (SMBL) is under the direction of Zhenfeng Duan, MD, PhD, and Orthopaedic Oncology Service Chief Francis J. Hornicek, MD, PhD. The focus of the Laboratory’s work is to analyze the molecular biology of sarcoma and to examine the mechanisms of multidrug resistance, to identify small molecules and targets to reverse drug resistance and to understand the molecular mechanisms governing growth, and the proliferation of human sarcoma cells.

The overall objectives of the Laboratory are to explore biological mechanisms of tumors arising in bone and other tissues. One major focus is to elucidate the mechanisms of the development of drug resistance in cancer. Previously, we have found multidrug resistance could be partially reversed by siRNA targeting of ABCB1 (MDR1) or by a combination of nanoparticles with chemotherapy drugs. Recently, we have identified two small molecules (NSC23925, NSC77037/Tetrandrine) that can overcome drug resistance in-vitro and in-vivo. These compounds and their derivatives hold significant therapeutic value in the treatment of MDR-dependent cancers. Another significant aim of the research is to define the essential kinases that are responsible for proliferation and survival of human sarcoma cells. We have discovered that several kinases, including CDK11 and PLK1 signaling, are essential in tumor cell growth and survival. In addition, translational research into new treatment options for sarcoma patients has been undertaken.

The Sarcoma Molecular Biology Laboratory has published articles pertaining to sarcoma and multidrug resistance in human cancer. Research projects have received funding from a variety of sources including NIH, foundations, corporate sponsors, and benefactors.