Md Yusuf Al Amin
Advisor's Name:
Philip Low
Email Address:
Training Group:
Cancer Biology
Research Summary:
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Advanced stage cancers often show upregulation of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), which suppresses the immune system, induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), promotes chemotherapy resistance, and facilitates angiogenesis, contributing to tumor progression and metastasis. Current treatment options for advanced stage cancers like triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are limited and have poor prognosis. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) worsen prognosis via TGF-β signaling. Inhibiting TGF-β signaling in TAMs and CAFs may offer a potential treatment for advanced cancers. My research focuses on developing TGF-β inhibitory drug conjugates targeting TAMs and CAFs for cancer management.
Why did you choose to attend PULSe:
My graduate school search began with keywords “Cancer Biology”, and “Oncology”. The “Molecular Signaling and Cancer Biology” training group of the PULSe program caught my attention. The availability of a number of labs with fascinating cancer research and the opportunity to rotate in four labs led me to choose this program. Additionally, the availability of the facilities like genetics, genomics, proteomics and instruments like advanced imaging microscopes, chromatographic and spectroscopic instruments, flow cytometry, X-ray irradiator etc. further reinforced my decision. Furthermore, the excellent reputation and world ranking were other decisive factors in my choice to join Purdue University.