DAMP Laboratory

The DAMP Laboratories of the University of Pittsburgh were formed in 2006 to focus on the role of Damage Associated Molecular Pattern Molecules [DAMPs], released or secreted by damaged or injured cells or the inflammatory cells responding to the "danger". Initiated as a coalition of the laboratories headed up by Drs. Liang, Lotze, Tang and Zeh, they focus on the critical role of DAMPs in the initiation of chronic inflammation and the disease that often eventuates as a consequence, cancer. Many local and international collaborators are working with this group to evaluate the role of DAMPs in cancer. They are located in the G.27 Hillman Cancer Center and span fundamental studies related to the role of DAMPs and their receptors [DAMP-R] in cancer pathogenesis and persistence, closely linked with the clinical efforts to limit necrotic cell death and promote normal, and programmed [apoptotic] cell death. Current studies ongoing in the laboratory include:

• Biochemistry of RAGE and HMGB1 molecules in normal tissues, tumor cells, macrophages, neutrophils and eosinophils
• Reduction-oxidation as a critical regulator of DAMPs and the inflammatory response
• Regulation and measurement of cell death – apoptosis, autophagy, and necrosis
• Dendritic cell – NK cell interactions in the approach to cancer treatment in animal models and clinical trials.
• DAMP-DAMP-R interaction using interferometry, imaging and flow cytometry
• The role of the mitochondria in metabolism of tumor cells and their disorder [Warburg Phenomena] in cancer with a switch to anaerobic glycolysis
• Identification and validation of specific miRNA in regulating the response to DAMPs and tissue injury or biomaterials
• The role of lipid signaling molecules in cell death and response to hormonal signals in cancer, especially prostatic cancer
• Gastrointestinal tumor models [colon cancer and pancreatic cancer] in animals with extension to rapid testing in clinical trials of the same tumors.
• Studies of liver metastases and the role of the hepatic stellate cell in biology.
• Biomarkers of cancer, especially the role of plasma DNA and developing optical biosensors for its detection.

More detailed information follows. Please contact Megan Sylves [412-623-5977; sylvesmw2@upmc.edu] or Nicole Schapiro [schapiron@upmc.edu] for deliveries or questions about our program at Rm G.27 Hillman Cancer Center 5117 Centre Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15213; (412) 623-1211