Overview
The current research in the Wang laboratory mainly focuses on the elucidation of molecular nature and signaling mechanisms associated with the initiation of cellular senescence. In addition, we continue to study changes in tumor microenvironment that promotes tumor progression and metastasis, particularly how tumor cells interact with the immune system. Ultimately, we hope that our studies in these areas to lead to the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of various types of human cancer.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Donald and Elizabeth Cooke Distinguished Professor of Cancer Research, in the School of Medicine
·
2009 - Present
Pharmacology & Cancer Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Professor of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology
·
2003 - Present
Pharmacology & Cancer Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Professor of Cell Biology
·
2022 - Present
Cell Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Member of the Duke Cancer Institute
·
1992 - Present
Duke Cancer Institute,
Institutes and Centers
Recent Publications
Aberrant cytoplasmic expression of UHRF1 restrains the MHC-I-mediated anti-tumor immune response.
Journal Article Nature communications · October 2024 Immunotherapy successfully complements traditional cancer treatment. However, primary and acquired resistance might limit efficacy. Reduced antigen presentation by MHC-I has been identified as potential resistance factor. Here we show that the epigenetic r ... Full text CiteBreaking NGF-TrkA immunosuppression in melanoma sensitizes immunotherapy for durable memory T cell protection.
Journal Article Nat Immunol · February 2024 Melanoma cells, deriving from neuroectodermal melanocytes, may exploit the nervous system's immune privilege for growth. Here we show that nerve growth factor (NGF) has both melanoma cell intrinsic and extrinsic immunosuppressive functions. Autocrine NGF e ... Full text Link to item CiteBranched-Chain Amino Acid Accumulation Fuels the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype.
Journal Article Adv Sci (Weinh) · January 2024 The essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine play critical roles in protein synthesis and energy metabolism. Despite their widespread use as nutritional supplements, BCAAs' full effects on mammalian physiology remain unc ... Full text Open Access Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Targeting Hepatocyte Senescence to Improve NAFLD
ResearchCo-Mentor · Awarded by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases · 2024 - 2029The Duke Preparing Research scholars In bioMEdical sciences (PRIME): Cancer Research Program
ResearchPreceptor · Awarded by National Cancer Institute · 2023 - 2028Targeting the tumor microenvironment to enhance immunotherapy for SCLC
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Department of Defense · 2025 - 2027View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
University of California, Los Angeles ·
1986
Ph.D.
Wuhan University (China) ·
1982
B.S.