In order to develop new target-based cancer therapeutics, a comprehensive understanding of the genes and signaling pathways altered in cancer is essential. Nevertheless, the genomic alterations in most human cancers are highly heterogeneous and complex, which complicates the direct identification of cancer-causing mutations. To efficiently identify new cancer genes, we utilize retrovirus-infected mice as model systems. Retroviruses cause tumors by activating proto-oncogenes or inactivating tumor suppressor genes through retroviral integrations into the host genome, making the viral integration sites valuable genetic markers for identifying cancer genes. We are investigating novel molecular targets for cancer treatment through the functional characterization of cancer genes discovered via high-throughput screens employing retroviral insertional mutagenesis. After identifying these genes, we use gene knockout and transgenic mice to study their roles in tumorigenesis and to develop new animal models for human cancer.

Takeshi Suzuki
Professor
Division of Functional Genomics