Cellular & Molecular Oncomics (CMO)

Cancer remains a formidable challenge to global health, necessitating cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. The Cellular & Molecular Oncomics (CMO) division aims to unravel the complexities of cancer biology through an integrative approach, leveraging advanced omics technologies such as genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Our primary focus is on the identification and validation of cancer biomarkers, the development of mass spectrometry-based panels for early detection and diagnostics, and the prediction of drug resistance and potential drug targets. By understanding the molecular underpinnings of cancer, particularly the activation of specific kinases and other signaling pathways, we strive to improve patient outcomes through personalized and targeted therapies. Collaboration with clinical and translational research groups will be pivotal in translating our discoveries from bench to bedside, ensuring that our research has a tangible impact on cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The CMO division will be structured to facilitate interdisciplinary research and foster innovation in cancer biology. The leadership will include: A SENIOR ONCOLOGIST at the level of Professor with over 15 years of experience in cancer research, guiding the division in line with its vision. TWO mid-career faculty at the level of Associate Professor: One with expertise in cell culture techniques, genetic engineering, molecular biology and small animal models. Another with extensive experience in omics technologies and bioinformatics. FOUR early-career faculty at the level of Assistant Professor, specializing in areas such as: Development of disease models in small animals. Mass spectrometry-based technologies. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. Computational biology and bioinformatics. Our initial focus will be on cancers with high incidence and mortality rates in India, such as breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers, and will expand to other types as our capabilities grow.

1. Developing Cell Culture and Animal Models of Cancer: Establish robust in vitro and in vivo models to study cancer biology and test therapeutic interventions.
2. Panel Development for Early Detection and Diagnostics: Utilize mass spectrometry to develop panels for the detection of cancer biomarkers in various biological samples.
3. Multi-Omics Analysis: Conduct comprehensive omics analyses (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics) to identify key biomarkers and molecular targets for cancer.
4. Predicting Drug Resistance: Identify genetic and molecular factors that contribute to drug resistance in cancer cells.
5. Drug Target Prediction: Investigate activated kinases and other signaling molecules to discover new drug targets.
6. Validation of Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets: Validate identified biomarkers and targets in cell culture and animal models.
7. Translational Research and Collaboration: Collaborate with clinical researchers to translate findings into diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
8. Optimizing Sample Processing and Acquisition Methods: Develop and refine methods for processing and analyzing biological samples for omics studies.
9. Exploring Natural Products for Cancer Therapy: Investigate herbal extracts and phytochemicals for their anti-cancer properties and mechanisms of action.
10. Enhancing Drug Efficacy and Understanding Pharmacology: Study the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of potential therapeutic compounds in preclinical models.
By fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment, the Cellular & Molecular Oncomics division aims to make significant contributions to the field of oncology, ultimately improving the early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer.