Oral bacteria are not just passive bystanders in the mouth. We investigate the role of bacterial-derived vesicles and toxins on the development and spreading of head and neck cancers. Recently, we found that specific oral bacteria can influence the course of oral cancer. Interestingly, the effect was dependent on the type of bacteria: some promoted cancer aggressiveness, while others were beneficial to the host health.
Our research on cancer cell plasticity seeks to uncover new mechanisms that drive tumor growth and clinical resistance. By identifying compounds capable of inhibiting phenotypic plasticity and its associated gene transcription, we aim to develop new therapies targeting the growth and dissemination of head and neck cancers.
In this regard, we have been instrumental in defining previously unknown mechanisms that potentially underpinning lymphatic metastasis in oral cancer (we coined the term Lymphatic Mimicry).
CRISPR-Cas9 is a cutting-edge genome editing tool designed to precisely modify specific DNA sequences within human cells. In our research, we harness this technology to directly edit the genome of human cancer cells, targeting and knocking out particular genes to elucidate their roles in carcinogenesis.
This approach is pivotal in uncovering novel drug target candidates for head and neck cancer treatment.