Matt's work in the Piwnica-Worms lab involves studying the paracrine environment of glioma. We believe that the interaction of glioma cancer cells with their supporting cell stroma is integral to mediating cell invasion, and directly influences the clinical course of this lethal disease. The goal of the project is to characterize important molecular players in the glioma cells microenvironment and improve response to radiation therapy. Outside of the laboratory, Matt is a radiation oncology resident physician, and enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
Education:
A.B. in Anthropology; Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology; University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
M.D.; University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
Cores affiliated with:
High Throughput Core
Joseph E. Ippolito, M.D., Ph.D.
Joe's work in the Piwnica-Worms lab merges molecular imaging and cancer metabolomics. Making use of high-throughput RNA interference and pharmaceutical screens to identify novel regulatory kinases and small molecule inhibitors of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) shunt of the TCA cycle, a pathway our lab previously discovered is enriched in an aggressive form of prostate cancer. The GABA shunt is an intriguing anti-neoplastic target, as it is upregulated during stress and maintains cell viability by modulating cytotoxic reactive oxygen species. These screens will help to understand the regulation of this complex metabolic pathway and may allow us to ultimately design integrated imaging and therapeutic strategies for patients with aggressive prostate cancer. Outside of lab, Joe is on clinical service as a radiology resident and spends time with his wife and daughter.
Education:
B.S. in Biochemistry; Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Ph.D. in Molecular Biophysics; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
M.D.; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
Cores affiliated with:
High Throughput Core
Sara C. Martinez, M.D., Ph.D.
Sara is a cardiology fellow in the Physician-Scientist Training Program. Her work in the David Piwnica-Worms lab focuses on novel imaging of atherosclerotic disease. The goal is to develop and test novel translational biotechnology towards the improvement of outcomes, in collaboration with members of the Cardiovascular Division and Reece, a talented MD/PhD student in the lab. Her clinical cardiology interests include: advanced mechanical circulatory support devices (VADs), critical care, and complex atherosclerotic disease management. When not in the lab or hospital, Sara enjoys spending time and traveling with her husband, cycling, and running with friends.
Education:
B.S. in Biochemistry; University of Texas at Austin, Austin TX
Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
M.D.; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
Additional Information:
ABIM Board Certified in Internal Medicine
National Board of Echocardiography - ASCeXam Testamur
