Tumor Stem Cell Biology

Applying stem cell concepts to identify novel therapeutic targets in cancer. 

To this aim we established specialized culture conditions to enrich for precursor cells in melanoma. Gene expression studies as well as functional assays revealed a critical role for the non canonical wnt pathway in melanoma.

In addition, we use induced pluripotent stem cells obtained from patients carrying genetic mutations to model genetic diseases.

This system will be used to scan novel therapies in tissues such as muscle and neurons which are hard to access. Finally, we are studying the association of genetic variation in regulatory elements to cancer and neuropsychiatric diseases.

Group Leader: Gilmor I. Keshet, Ph.D.

Team: Liraz Shenhav, M.Sc. - Research assistant, Hadar Fudem, B.Sc. (MSc Student)