Lung Cancer

Screening tests using helical CT scans and fluorescence bronchoscopy are being used to diagnose early stage lung cancer in high risk smokers. We have collaborative studies to evaluate p53 DNA adducts, methylation and mutations using GeneChip microarray technology in smokers’ bronchial epithelial cells. We are modeling lung cancer gene mutations in the lungs of transgenic mice. We are studying cell cycle genes in lung cancer and potential prevention strategies. We are producing adenoviral and Sindbis virus mutants that can target lung cancer and introduce toxic genes. Clinical trials of gene therapy are extant.