Current Projects

Using a variety of mouse models of colorectal cancer to identify the cell signaling pathways by which inadequate amounts of one-carbon nutrients (vitamins B2, B6, B12 and folate) enhance carcinogenesis. The Wnt signaling pathway is a particular focus of this laboratory.
Utilizing both animal models of human polymorphisms, as well as observational studies in humans to identify how critical single nucleotide polymorphisms interact with one-carbon nutrients to further modulate the risk of cancer.
Using a variety of mouse models of colorectal cancer to identify the cell signaling pathways by which obesity enhances carcinogenesis.
Examining biopsies of the human colon in order to determine how the molecular and biochemical milieu of the obese individual differs from that of the lean individual.
Using an innovative model of colorectal cancer in mice to examine the paradoxical cancer promoting effect of excess folic acid.
Examining how modulation of one-carbon nutrient availability in the pregnant mouse modulates risk of colorectal cancer in the offspring.
Utilizing both cell culture and animal experiments to determine how age and alcohol consumption modifies a variety of epigenetic features of DNA, and thereby affects cancer risk.

Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging - Tufts University