The Luke Chen Lab

The Luke Chen Lab has multiple research interests in oral and esophageal cancers with a focus on cancer cell signaling and metabolism in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) with a translational intention.

Our lab was previously interested in targeting oxidative stress and aberrant arachidonic acid metabolism for chemoprevention of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Later, we focused on the molecular mechanisms of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Our team has two current research focuses:

• Molecular mechanisms and targeted therapy of NRF2^high-ESCC: The goal is to understand how NRF2 hyperactivation (due to DNA mutations) contributes to ESCC and to develop inhibitors of NRF2 or its downstream kinases for targeted therapy of NRF2^high-ESCC. Our long-term goal is to translate some of these inhibitors into clinical trials. We believe NRF2 inhibitors will be used in combination with chemoradiotherapy and immunotherapy.
• Molecular mechanisms and chemoprevention of alcohol-associated ESCC: We focus on the roles of NOTCH-PAX9 signaling and NRF2-ACSS2 axis-mediated metabolism in alcohol-associated carcinogenesis. Our long-term goal is to develop “benign cell boosters” (NRF2 activators, NOTCH activators) as chemopreventive agents based on the concept of cancer evolution.

Join the Team

The Luke Chen Lab is always looking for talented scientists with a passion for cancer cell signaling, especially related to cancers found in the esophagus. Research scientist positions are immediately available. Contact Human Resources if you're a good fit.