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| Modeling Cancer and Cancer Genomes |
Ronald A DePinho, MD |
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Director, Belfer Institute for Cancer Science
American Cancer Society Research Professor
Professor of Medicine and Genetics
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts |
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This year marks the centennial of the mouse in cancer science.
Engineered mouse models have been instrumental in illuminating
key molecular, genomic and physiological factors that
conspire to drive the development of cancer, and maintain the
malignant state. We have explored the intimate association
between the aging process and cancer, and how common
adult cancers acquire rampant chromosomal aberrations. A
confluence of telomere dysfunction, impaired DNA damage
signaling, and age- or disease- accelerated epithelial renewal
play critical roles in creating genomic events needed to drive the
malignant process. We have also defined the extent to which
telomeres influence the normal aging process and lifespan and
contribute to stem cell and tissue homeostasis. These studies
have provided insights into the pathogenesis of inherited and
acquired degenerative diseases, among leading causes of death
worldwide. Lastly, we have proven the utility of the mouse in
comparative oncogenomics and proteomics in facilitating the
identification of cancer genes and early detection biomarkers.
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