The Labidi-Galy Lab
From pathogenesis to precision medicine in breast and ovarian cancer
In the last decade, large-scale next-generation sequencing of DNA and RNA allowed a new comprehension of cancer. Cancer cells are characterized by specific genomic alterations that include multiple gene mutations, amplifications and/or deletions. They interact with different components of the tumor microenvironment such as immune cells, fibroblasts and endothelial cells. We are committed to precision medicine by combining our knowledge about the genomic alterations of cancer cells and the immune composition of the tumor microenvironment in order to develop new therapies. We use digital pathology, multispectral immunohistochemistry, laser capture microdissection and next-generation sequencing to reach our goal.
The lab’s research is strongly oriented toward translation of our findings into diagnostic and therapeutic tools to improve the lives of women with breast and ovarian cancer.
ABOUT US
BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations in breast and ovarian cancer
Germline mutations of BRCA1/BRCA2 genes occur in up to 5% of breast cancer patients and 15% of ovarian cancers. These genes are major players in the repair of DNA double strand breaks. BRCA carriers have therefore increased sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents, such as platinum or PARP inhibitors. We recently showed a correlation between the BRCA2 genotype and response to platinum in ovarian cancer patients. Only BRCA2 carriers, harboring mutations located in the RAD51-binding domain (RAD51-BD), have prolonged treatment-free intervals and longer survival, whereas the other BRCA2 carriers did not show a survival benefit. We are currently investigating the impact of BRCA mutations on toxicity and response to chemotherapy in breast cancer patients.
Tumor microenvironment of triple-negative breast cancer
Tumorectomy of TNBC
Triple-negative breast cancer
Biopsies of TNBC
Ovarian cancer
Progression from p53 signature to STIC to high-grade serous carcinoma.