RADIOCHEMOTHERAPY DOSE RESPONSE: Many experimental studies have shown that the effects of radiation and drug are complex, often switching from synergistic to antagonistic depending on dose and schedule. Mathematical models are needed to disentangle the multiplicity of factors that contribute to this complex response. My current research focuses on developing models for cellular pharmacology of radiation combined with chemotherapeutic drugs, with the primary application being treatment of cancer.
I expect my work will have application in identifying improved schedules and dosing for existing treatments. Further, larger-scale mathematical models for animal model or clinical response require these cellular-level models as components.
CELL CYCLE EFFECTS: I am also interested in the impact of the cell cycle on tumor cell sensitivity to treatment. Many factors including the presence of growth factors, the availability of metabolic substrates, and the repair of DNA damage, affect cell growtb and division. Anticancer drugs function by interfering with cellular processes and thus may have varying effects on cells depending on cell cycle status. This work is applicable to the design of anticancer treatment schedules and in describing interactions between multiple treatment agents.
CELL CYCLE EFFECTS: I am also interested in the impact of the cell cycle on tumor cell sensitivity to treatment. Many factors including the presence of growth factors, the availability of metabolic substrates, and the repair of DNA damage, affect cell growtb and division. Anticancer drugs function by interfering with cellular processes and thus may have varying effects on cells depending on cell cycle status. This work is applicable to the design of anticancer treatment schedules and in describing interactions between multiple treatment agents.