Focus
Cancer
Group leaders
Group members
Associate Professor Sara Lal
Ms Lina Sidavong (PhD candidate)
About us
My primary research interests are in the investigation of the genetic and molecular basis of colorectal and other cancers with the ultimate aim of developing diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers and future novel therapies for cancer. My current research is focused on determining how alterations in the expression and/or function of an important tumour suppressor gene, PTEN, contributes to the development and/or progression of cancer.
More specifically, current research projects examine: (1) the effect of mutations of the PTEN gene on the function of PTEN and the consequent cellular functional effects brought about by such mutations and (2) investigating the role of a pseudogene of PTEN (PTENP1) in the regulation PTEN expression and cellular abundance through competition for microRNA binding and direct transcriptional regulation. I also collaborate with other researchers at UTS and externally.
Collaborations
Within UTS
Professor Ann Simpson
Associate Professor Sara Lal
Associate Professor Bronwyn O’Brien
External
Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
The ANZAC Research Institute and University of Sydney
Children’s Medical Research Institute (CIMR)
Medical University of South Carolina, USA.