Sarcoma Array Research Consortium Laboratory, Huntsman Cancer Institute
The SARC Lab, Sarcoma Services, is a translational and basic science research laboratory specializing in the molecular genetics of sarcomas and related diseases. The SARC Lab routinely employs molecular (e.g., cDNA gene expression profiling, RT-PCR, western blots, etc.) and cell biology (viability assays, apoptosis, etc.) techniques and assays to address questions pertaining to the molecular classification and biology/pathogenesis of sarcomas and mesenchymal neoplasia. In order to fulfill this goal, we also utilize a variety of specialty core facilities (CF) maintained by the University of Utah, including the Microarray CF, the Genomics CF, the Flow Cytometry CF and the Protein/Peptide CF. Current SARC projects involve (1) a molecular classification of selected sarcomas using cDNA gene expression profiling, (2) validation of the applicability of transcontinental transfer of tumor samples for use in cDNA microarray gene expression profiling, (3) a statistical analysis defining the influence of RNA degradation on cDNA microarray output , (4) the use of antisense oligonucleotide intervention as a means of enhancing chemotherapy efficacy in synovial sarcoma, (5) identification of differences in the gene expression profiles of sarcomas and normal mesenchymal cells subjected to sub-lethal doses of the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin, (6) the impact of nutrient depravation on the expression profiles of sarcomas and normal mesenchymal cells, and (7) the influence of cooperative cell-cell communication on the survival of cells subjected in vitro to a chemical insult.
Faculty
- R. Lor Randall, M.D., F.A.C.S.
- David E. Joyner, Ph.D.
