Research

The UCSF Division of Surgical Oncology spearheads a diverse portfolio of multidisciplinary research initiatives encompassing basic and translational science, surgical services improvements, and health outcomes research. The Surgical Oncology Division faculty and their research interests are highlighted on this webpage.  

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Labs

We have a strong commitment to research that advances the science, including a broad menu of clinical trials and innovative translational research in our labs:

• Breast Cancer Research
• Colorectal Research
• Endocrine Surgery Research
• Endocrine Neoplasia Research Lab
• Maker Lab
• NIH T32 Research Training in Surgical Oncology
• Valerie M. Weaver Lab
• Warren Lab in Surgical Oncology

Clinical Research

We offer clinical trials for a wide range of conditions including Anal Cancer, Biliary Cancer (Bile Duct & Gallbladder), Colon Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Neuroendocrine Tumors, Pancreatic Cancer, Rectal Cancer, as well as Phase I Solid Tumor studies. Many of these trials are led by Principal Investigators in the GI Oncology Program including Emily Bergsland, M.D., Andrew H. Ko, M.D.  and  Alan P. Venook, M.D.
 

Lab Research

Researchers in the lab are focused on identifying lesions associated with the tumorigenesis and metastasis. The Surgical Oncology Tumor Bank has been invaluable in advancing this research possible. For example, the lab was able to help validate the role of microRNAs in a mouse model of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors using human neuroendocrine tumor specimens. The lab is also investigating the role of Sall2 in conferring resistance to cancer therapies, how TNFR1 signaling contributes to the inflammatory response and cell apoptosis, and the role of colon cancer stem cells in perpetuating tumor growth.