The Molecular and Cellular Biology Division has basic and clinical research interests within the fields of cancer and
infectious disease. The Molecular and Cellular Biology Division embraces a multi-discipline approach, applying
molecular, cellular, microbiological, biochemical, and genetic techniques to investigate problems in pathogenesis
and host response. The group is dedicated to the identification and development of novel biomarkers and
therapeutic targets for clinical use.
MCBD Research Teams

Cancer: The Cancer Team is interested in identifying cellular targets for use as biomarkers for cancer
diagnosis and as candidates for therapeutic strategies. Current research focuses on using noninvasive
sampling methods, primarily urine, to detect biomarkers associated with bladder cancers.

• Biomarker Identification and Diagnostic Test Development: Our goal is to discover and utilize markers
   for use in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cancer.

• Tumor metastasis: Our goal is to characterize novel protein function in tumor cell migration and invasion
   to identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

Pathogenesis: The Pathogenesis Team is characterizing the molecular and cellular interactions of bacteria with
the host immune response. Current research focuses on two main areas: urinary tract infections and probiotic
treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

• Uropathogenic Escherichia coli: Each year over seven million women in the United States experience
urinary tract infections (UTIs). Uropathogenic Escherichia coli is the cause of over 70% of these infections.
Diagnosis of a UTI relies upon the number of bacteria in urine, with greater than 100,000 E. coli per milliliter of urine defined as an acute UTI. However, lower counts are difficult to interpret; as low as 100 E. coli per milliliter of urine can still indicate an infection, but their presence can also be due to contamination by commensal E. coli. In addition, it is very difficult to obtain uncontaminated urine specimens from nonpotty trained children. Our goal is to develop novel molecular diagnostic assays that can distinguish uropathogenic from commensal E. coli to facilitate diagnosis and treatment of UTIs.

Women’s Health: The Women’s Health Team is characterizing the role of fastidious vaginal microorganisms in
several obstetric and gynecologic conditions. Current research focuses on two main areas: bacterial vaginosis
and pre-term delivery.

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Our goal is to develop novel diagnostics to better diagnose and treat patients
   with BV.
• Pre-Term Delivery: Our goal is to investigate the association of fastidious vaginal microorganisms and
   inflammation with outcome