Xinyan Wu, Ph.D.

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SUMMARY

Mass spectrometry-based proteomics has matured into a powerful technology for global analysis of protein composition, modification and protein-protein interactions. The research of Xinyan Wu, Ph.D., is focused on using quantitative proteomics to study cancer signaling and identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for breast and ovarian cancer. Dr. Wu's group also uses multidisciplinary technology platforms including genetic engineering, molecular and cellular biology, and preclinical animal models to reveal the functional roles of key proteins involved in cancer initiation and progression.

Focus areas

• Dissecting cancer signaling pathways driven by protein kinases, particularly protein tyrosine kinases
• Using proximity-labeling technologies (BioID and APEX) coupled with mass spectrometry to study the interactomes of key signaling proteins
• Investigating molecular mechanisms underlying the resistance to targeted therapies such as endocrine therapy, CDK4/6 inhibitor-based therapy for breast cancer and PARP inhibitor-based therapy for ovarian cancer
• Developing novel targeted therapies including humanized monoclonal antibody and antibody drug conjugate to target AXL receptor tyrosine kinase for triple negative breast cancer and high-grade serous ovarian cancer
• Developing novel technologies for quantitative proteomics

Significance to patient care

The advanced integrative technologies used in Dr. Wu's studies enable his research group to gain novel insights into cancer signaling networks that are critical for cancer initiation and progression. The goal of his studies on resistance to targeted therapies for breast and ovarian cancer is to identify biomarkers that stratify patients for personalized therapy and discover potential therapeutic targets to overcome the resistance.

Professional highlights

• Recipient, Era of Hope Breakthrough Award (Level 2), Department of Defense, Breast Cancer Research Program, 2019
• Recipient, Career Catalyst Research Award, Susan G. Komen Foundation, 2010
• Recipient, Era of Hope Postdoctoral Fellow Award, Department of Defense, Breast Cancer Research Program, 2004