Ion Channels As Molecular Targets in RELA Fusion Driven Ependymoma
Background
The major goal of the Mack laboratory is to understand the molecular basis of various childhood brain cancers in order to inform design and evaluation of novel therapies. In the Mack lab, Luz will work on characterizing the function and dependency of two calcium ion channel (CACNA1H and CACNA1L) proteins that were recently identified as high-priority targets in an aggressive childhood brain tumor called ependymoma.
Project Goal
Luz will perform loss-of-function studies in two patient-derived tumor models that were established in the lab. Results from her summer project have the potential to pinpoint therapeutic targets for a childhood brain tumor type with no targeted therapies currently available to patients.
Mentored by Dr. Stephen Mack
Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
