Research
Profile (Community of Science)
Research Program:
Dr. Yeungs research focuses on the genetic mechanisms of tumorigenesis
with emphasis on tumor suppressor genes and hereditary cancers. With
over 20 such genes cloned in humans, the diversity of their functions
and mechanisms highlights novel pathways of tumor initiation. Dr. Yeungs
work exploits a unique animal model of hereditary cancer to study the
multi-step process of tumor development. Two such novel tumor suppressor
genes of current interest relate to the disease tuberous sclerosis complex
(TSC). Dr. Yeungs laboratory utilizes genetic, cell biologic and
biochemical approaches to dissect the function of these genes. Recent
studies evaluate the concept of protein transport/sorting and its mechanistic
link to cell cycle control. Another aspect of Dr. Yeungs work
deals with genetic factors that govern phenotypic heterogeneity. Genetic
analyses are being carried out to identify quantitative trait loci that
contribute to variation in tumor burden, multiplicity and metastatic
potential. In collaboration with others, the role of TSC-related genes
in cardiomyocytic proliferation and neuronal differentiation are also
being investigated.
Other areas of interest include the study of liver tumorigenesis using various transgenic models, and mechanism of metastasis as it relates to the TSC/mTOR pathway.
Investigator: Dr. Yeung is a Professor of Surgery, and Adjunct Professor of Medicine and Pathology
(Medical Genetics).