Tom Pierce
Scientist
Matthias Ernst Lab Ludwig Center at Melbourne
Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research
Australia
Biography
My research has focused on modeling therapeutic inhibition of the transcription factor STAT3 in mouse models of gastrointestinal cancer, using RNA interference technology. STAT3 is activated in a wide range of solid tumors, a phenomenon commonly attributed to elevated levels of STAT3-activating cytokines within the tumor microenvironment. Among the many functions of this transcription factor, STAT3 promotes epithelial cell survival and mucosal defenses during immune responses, and promotes the differentiation of immune cells that enhance innate immunity. Because of these functions, STAT3 is an important tumor-promoting signaling node in gastrointestinal cancers.
Research Interest
Gastrointestinal cancer, immune therapy
