Why does cancer come back?

Months to years after a tumor is removed, residual cancer cells can regrow and seed new metastases. Metastasis accounts for nearly 90% of cancer deaths. Yet how these cells decide when to remain quiet and when to grow remains poorly understood. We investigate how cancer cells decode signal inputs into distinct gene programs depending on their state, and how this interpretation shifts as disease progresses to redirect cell fate and drive metastatic disease.

By elucidating the molecular principles underlying these cell state transitions, we aim to bridge fundamental discovery with clinical impact.

We decode the language cells speak. If this journey calls to you, please reach out. We'd love to hear from you.