The University of Toledo

Welcome to Cancer Biology

Welcome to the Cancer Biology track at the University of Toledo College of Medicine

The Cancer Biology track in the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Education program at the UT College of Medicine takes an integrated approach to training the next generation of cancer researchers by developing broad knowledge and research expertise in cancer biology.  Students may pursue the Master of Science (M.S.), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or combined M.D./Ph.D. or M.D./M.S. degrees in the Cancer Biology track.

Cancer is defined as a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.  Uncontrolled growth of cancer cells can result in death.  All cancers involve the malfunction of genes that regulate cellular growth, division and death.  Approximately 5% of cancers are strongly hereditary in that an inherited gene confers a high risk of developing one or more types of cancer.  Cancer arises from gene mutations and stable changes in gene expression that occur during one’s lifetime. These genetic changes may be caused by external agents such as chemicals, irradiation, and viruses; or by internal factors such as hormones or natural metabolic processes.  Cancer is treated by surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy.

Research in Cancer Biology at the University of Toledo College of Medicine encompasses a wide spectrum of topics including:

• the control of tumor cell growth and cell death
• intracellular signal transduction
• protein trafficking
• transport of vitamins and anti-metabolites
• development of viral vectors for gene therapy
• regulation of gene expression in yeast and mammalian cells
• development of novel peptide regulators of hormone receptors
• mechanisms of DNA repair
• cancer chemoprevention

Internationally recognized faculty mentors (Faculty Research Interests) in these areas are well-funded by extramural granting agencies.  Modern research laboratories in the Cancer Biology track are well-equipped to apply state-of-the-art technologies in biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular genetics to the study of cancer.

Please email questions, comments and suggestions to Cancer Biology track director, Dr. Randall Ruch.