The molecular characterization of solid tumors such as glioblastoma and relapsed sarcoma has revealed a complex intra-tumoral heterogeneity that adapts quickly to standard-of-care (SOC) by activating “treatment response networks.” Dr. Pollok’s research program focuses on the development of novel multi-phase therapies that target primary and secondary treatment response networks. To evaluate mechanisms of action and efficacy, 3D cultures, patient-derived xenografts, and orthotopic modeling approaches are being utilized. Research areas include:
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As a pipeline to discovery, use precision genomics and pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic approaches to understand adaptive response to treatment and identify biomarkers of response.
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In adult and pediatric GBM, investigate a multi-phase approach that first targets two interconnected treatment response networks induced by SOC (Mdm2/p53/p73 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR), followed by a second phase of therapy targeting PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK.
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Discover novel maintenance and curative therapies for relapsed pediatric neuroblastoma and sarcomas (Ewings, osteosarcoma, and Rhabdomyosarcoma). Targets under investigation are EZH2, Chk1/2, and MYC.
Dr. Pollok's research interests include:
- Modulation of DNA repair activity in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) with a focus on in vivo models to study protection of HSC from chemotherapy
