Department: Pediatrics and Huntsman Cancer Institute

E-mail : stephen.lessnick@hci.utah.edu
Address:  HCI, room 4242, 2000 Circle of Hope, SLC, UT 84112
Phone: 585-9268

Research Title: Target Genes in Ewing's Sarcoma Development

Research Description:

We are interested in understanding how cancer in children develops.   In particular, we have been studying Ewing's sarcoma. Ewing's sarcoma is a highly aggressive tumor of uncertain origin.   What makes this tumor particularly important is the presence of a recurrent chromosomal abnormality.   This abnormality results in the formation of a tumor-specific cancer-causing gene (an "oncogene") called EWS/FLI.   EWS/FLI functions as an abnormal transcription factor that regulates genes involved in cancer formation.

We have a variety of tools to study this oncogene.   For example, we use microarrays to determine which genes are dysregulated by EWS/FLI.   We use RNAi to knock-down expression of some genes, and retroviral vectors to over express others.   We use soft-agar assays and mouse xenografts to study the cancerous phenotype of the tumor cells.

Our ultimate goals are to develop a comprehensive understanding of the transcriptional alterations mediated by EWS/FLI and how those alterations lead to cancer.   In this way we hope to identify new points of intervention for this devastating disease, and to make a positive impact on the lives' of children with cancer.

See http://www.huntsmancancer.org/group/lessnick/lessnickHome.jsp for more information.

11/2004