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Mowery Lab

The Mowery Lab utilizes genetically engineered mouse models, patient-derived samples and molecular biology techniques to study head and neck cancer development and progression, as well as the interplay between radiation therapy and the immune system and head and neck cancer. We have a particular interest in understanding the molecular underpinnings of radiation resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and immune dysregulation in the tumor microenvironment. Our overarching goal is to translate scientific discoveries from the bench to the bedside to advance the care and improve the quality of life for patients with cancer.

Lab News

December 15th, 2023:

Mowery lab published “Preclinical Evaluation of the ATR Inhibitor BAY 1895344 as a Radiosensitizer for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma” in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0360301623082445?dgcid=author

These preclinical data supported the initiation of a multi-institutional phase I clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of BAY 1895344 with radiation therapy and pembrolizumab in patients with recurrent, previously irradiated head and neck cancer. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04576091

September 28th, 2023:

Dr. Yvonne Mowery named a 2023 Hillman Early-Career Fellow for Innovative Cancer Research in recognition for her achievements in the field of cancer research.

September 27th, 2023:

The Mowery lab is proud to announce that Dr. Ashlyn Rickard was selected and competed as a finalist at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center 2023 Annual Scientific Retreat for the Team Minnow Tank Competition. This competition was an opportunity for trainees to propose a high risk research idea that has the possibility to yield a high reward. Dr. Rickard proposed a research idea focused around creating a more specific GEMM for HPV negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The proposed model would allow for more targeted tumor formation in areas that have been extremely difficult to mimic in mouse models, such as opharyngeal cancer. Through the presentation, Dr. Rickard was selected as one of two winners of this year's Team Minnow Tank Competition and was awarded funding for this project proposal! The Mowery lab extends our congratulations to Dr. Rickard for her innovative idea and success with the Team Minnow Tank Competition.

September 1th, 2023:

The Mowery lab is delighted to announce that Dr. Ashlyn Rickard has been selected as the recipient of the esteemed the Hillman Fellowship for Innovative Cancer Research, a recognition designed to honor exceptional accomplishments and remarkable contributions made by postdoctoral scholars in their pursuit of scientific excellence. This award underscores the dedication, innovation, and impact of individuals who have demonstrated outstanding promise and achievement in their early careers.

As a postdoctoral scholar, Dr. Rickard has demonstrated freakish proficiency in tackling complex challenges within translational cancer research. Her innovative work on electron paramagnetic resonance oxygen imaging has not only illuminated novel insights into quantifying absolute oxygen in tumors but has also opened up new avenues for potential progress in mitigating tumor hypoxia in the clinic.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Rickard for her outstanding achievements, her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, and her unwavering commitment to supporting, inspiring and uplifting everyone in her environment.