Pediatric Cancer Modeling in zebrafish
We use genetic engineering and xenotransplantation approaches to model pediatric cancer (sarcomas and brain tumors) in zebrafish. We apply genetic models to ask which cells at which specific differentiation stage can give rise to tumors, which developmental programs are (re)activated, and which cells of the tumor microenvironment contribute to tumorigenesis. For this, we use state-of-the-art microscopy and sequencing techniques.
Small compound screening
We use our genetic and xenotransplantation zebrafish models to screen small compounds for anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects and identify novel therapeutic strategies.
Technology development
We are developing optogenetic approaches to drive oncogene expression confined to specific regions and cells. We use this to improve tumor modeling in zebrafish. We are also further automating the small compound screening process for larval zebrafish cancer models to increase throughput for drug testing.
