Hao Chen

Current Research Interests:

Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (Her2) is amplified in 20-25% of breast cancer. Expression of Her2 defines an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that is capable of metastasis. Clinically used tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) provide therapeutic benefit to patients by blocking oncogenic Her2 signaling. Unfortunately, patients develop resistance to TKIs, reducing survival. Hence, there is a critical need for novel therapies capable of inhibiting the growth of these drug resistant metastases. We have recently established that fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) contributes to metastasis and Her2 drug resistance. Furthermore, src homology phosphatase-2 (SHP2) is required for FGFR1 signaling. Small molecule inhibitors of SHP2 have been developed, and these may serve and important therapeutics. However, there is still a mechanistic gap in knowledge concerning the role of SHP2 in driving metastasis and resistance. Deciphering these detailed mechanisms is essential to optimizing a therapeutic strategy targeting SHP2.