Roles
Assistant Professor
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Biography
As a physician-scientist, my research centers on understanding the complexities of deregulated signaling networks that drive tumor development, cancer progression, and metastasis. My studies emphasize the role of disrupted signal transduction pathways, including deregulated membrane receptors such as tyrosine kinases and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), as well as oncogenes, in epithelial-derived solid tumors—primarily prostate, breast, and lung cancers. Key areas of investigation include: a) identifying new therapeutic targets and developing anticancer agents; b) examining how deregulation of diacylglycerol (DAG)/protein kinase C (PKC)-regulated signaling pathways promotes tumor growth and spread; c) exploring how Rho and Rac small GTPases regulate cell movement and invasive behaviors, affecting metastasis and drug resistance in oncogene-driven systems; and d) characterizing signaling events within cancer cells that lead to actin cytoskeleton reorganization and the formation of structures like ruffles and tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). Ultimately, these extensive research efforts aim to identify new molecular targets and develop effective therapeutic strategies that could significantly benefit the welfare of our patients’ community. -
Education & Training
Education
Post Graduate Training
Licensures and Certifications
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Teaching Interests
As a minority/underrepresented junior faculty, I contribute to educational programs from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center (SCCC). I aim to establish valuable interactions with minority medical, undergraduate, and graduate students and promote their outstanding training and education to enhance diversity in science. Finally, as a committed Physician-Scientist with an unparalleled devotion to cancer research, I aim to tirelessly reach the highest academic standards to serve our community and improve patient outcomes. -
Research Interests
Understanding the intricacies of deregulated signaling networks as the pathophysiological basis underlying tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and metastatic dissemination is at the core of my research interests. These studies emphasize the role of Rho small GTPases and oncogenic kinases in clinically relevant models with translational applicability.
My research projects overarch key disarranged nodal signaling pathways leading to molecular aberrancies in hormone-mediated and oncogenic-driven epithelial-derived solid tumors, including human adrenocortical, breast, prostate cancer, and lung adenocarcinoma.
The integrative goal is to identify emergent molecular targets and pave the way for novel pharmacological approaches and pioneering strategies to reshape the spectrum of therapeutic venues, aiding the advancement of translational and precision medicine. -
Publications
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