Welcome to the Michmerhuizen Lab

The Michmerhuizen Lab seeks to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying fusion oncoprotein-driven cancers, and in doing so identify novel strategies to improve patient outcomes. Many fusion oncoproteins localize in membraneless organelles, called condensates, through a process known as phase separation. Work from Dr. Michmerhuizen and others has shown that these fusion-associated condensates play a key role in oncogenic transformation. Additionally, therapeutic targeting of proteins that interact with fusions in condensates has proven effective in preclinical models. Ongoing work aims to refine the relationship between fusion oncoprotein biology, condensate formation, disease progression, and therapeutic targeting. To accomplish this, we leverage a combination of faithful mouse and human systems as well as integrate genomic, epigenomic, proteomic, and pharmacologic approaches. Ultimately, this work will identify and undermine key proteins and processes in currently intractable fusion-driven cancers.

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