Ronald Buckanovich, M.D., Ph.D.
University of Pennsylvania
Identification and Validation of Clinically Relevant Targets in Ovarian Cancer Tumor Vasculature
Project Summary
Tumor blood vessels are different than normal blood vessels. Tumor vessels not only function differently, they also make unique proteins not made by normal blood vessels. With the support of the OCRF we have identified over 70 ovarian tumor vascular specific markers (TVMs). Based upon their tumor specific expression and exposure to blood we believe that these are ideal targets for tumor therapy. One goal of our work is to identify and create antibodies targeting these TVMs which can be used as anti-human ovarian cancer vascular therapeutics. Similarly, based upon their tumor specific expression, expression at the earliest stages of tumor development, and direct exposure to blood, we believe that TVMs are potential biomarkers for not only targeted therapy, but also ovarian cancer diagnosis. The second goal of our study is to determine if TVMs or immune responses against TVMs can be detected in the sera of ovarian cancer patients as disease biomarkers. Finally, tumor vasculature provides critical signals and factors to support the growth of ovarian cancer stem cells; the cells believed to be responsible for the initiation and recurrence of ovarian cancer. This ‘tumor vascular niche’ has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target. The final aim of our current study is to begin to understand the role of ovarian TVMs in supporting cancer stem cell growth and determine if disrupting the tumor vascular niche can disrupt the growth of ovarian cancer stem cells.
Bio
Ronald J. Buckanovich is an Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Trained as a medical oncologist, Dr Buckanovich’s clinical effort is focused on the treatment of patients with gynecologic malignancies with an emphasis on ovarian and uterine cancers. In addition, Dr. Buckanovich runs a research laboratory dedicated to the development of novel diagnostic tools and new molecular therapeutics for ovarian cancer. He obtained his medical degree from Cornell University Medical College and a PhD in Molecular Oncology at the Rockefeller University. He performed residency training in Internal Medicine and fellowship training in Hematology and Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania. After serving as faculty at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Buckanovich initiated his laboratory program at the University of Michigan. His studies supported by the OCRF were recognized with the "Outstanding Basic Science Research" award from the Society of Gynecologic Oncologist in 2006. Dr. Buckanovich is currently a member of the gynecologic oncology group, the Southwest oncology group, & Society of gynecologic oncologist.
This grant is partially funded by a generous grant from the estate of Carol F. Bleeker.
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