Translational Oncology Research Center

Overview

Develop diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies to optimize cancer care with a focus on breast cancer in Qatar and beyond.

The Translational Oncology Research Center aims to achieve a better understanding of the cellular and molecular bases of cancer initiation and progression with a focus on breast cancer, which is the most common type of cancer among females globally.

The Translational Oncology Research Center’s highest priority is to shed more light on cancer issues that impact Qatar and the Arab region, areas of the world that are underrepresented in cancer research.

A new relevant and contemporary direction for the center is to conduct research in the area of infectious diseases and immunity.

Research Areas

Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy

This area explores the tumor microenvironment to gain insight into some of the mechanisms utilized by tumor cells to evade immune-mediated destruction, and how these can be used to develop novel immune-based interventions. The Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy theme has a vested interest in the development of immunotherapeutic approaches using genetically modified immune cells.

Dr. Julie Decock

Senior Scientist

Dr. Mariam Al-Muftah

Scientist

Cancer Biomarkers and Therapy

This area focuses its research efforts on the identification of diagnostic, prognostic, predictive biomarkers, and novel therapeutic targets for breast cancer. CRC investigators are exploring the potential utilization of protein coding (mRNA), noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs and miRNAs), proteins, and metabolites in breast cancer tissue and circulation as potential disease biomarkers and targets for therapeutic interventions.

Dr. Nehad Alajez

Principal Investigator

Dr. Fares Al Ejeh

Senior Scientist

Oncogenic signaling pathways in breast cancer

This area investigates the intracellular signaling pathways that control cell proliferation and differentiation and that, when aberrantly activated, underlie oncogenic transformation and progression, with particular attention to breast cancer. Examples include the Wnt, Notch, RTK/PI3K, Hedgehog, or hormonal oncogenic signaling pathways. The understanding of these mechanisms advances the fundamental cell biology and oncology. Furthermore, it establishes a foundation for translational and drug discovery initiatives aimed at addressing cancer in general, with a specific focus on breast cancer.