PI3K inhibitors have shown real promise as cancer therapies, but many tumours eventually develop resistance, which limits their long-term effectiveness. Our lab investigates the molecular mechanisms behind that resistance and looks for strategies to overcome it.
We use a combination of cell line models and xenografts to study the regulatory mechanisms involved. That includes identifying secondary mutations in PI3K and its downstream effectors, as well as alterations in other signalling routes that bypass PI3K inhibition altogether. We also test combination therapies aimed at those escape routes, including synergistic drug pairings that may restore inhibitor efficacy and improve patient response.