Ian Davis, MD, PhD
G. Denman Hammond Professor of Childhood Cancer
Co-Leader, UNC Lineberger Cancer Genetics Research Program
Chief, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology
Associate Director, Cancer Epigenetics Training Program
About
- Mentorship Training Completions:
- Department Affiliations:
- Genetics; Pediatrics
I am interested in the application of integrated genome-wide approaches to identify the epigenetic and chromatin biology consequences of genetic alterations in human cancers. Primary foci of the lab include Ewing sarcoma in which we explore the mechanism through which the necessary chromosomal translocation-derived fusion oncoprotein EWSR1-FLI1 regulates chromatin states and target genes. We also are evaluating the effect of mutations in the histone methyltransferase SETD2 and the chromatin remodeling complex member PBRM1 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Because of our expertise in epigenomics, we also collaborate with labs across the campus studying other cancers and developmental disorders.
My Research
Dr. Davis is a pediatric hematologist and oncologist, with expertise in sarcoma and solid tumors. Research in the Davis lab uses invitro human and animal models in order to:
- Study transcription factor targeting as well as gene regulation in the progression of cancer versus normal development through genomic and proteomic approaches.
- Develop new therapies and diagnostics for childhood cancer by focusing on chromatin maintenance, transcription and organization in cancer progression, such as functional consequences of aberrant chromatin and its role in oncogenesis.
- Understand how certain genes activate and deactivate in occurrences of Ewing’s sarcoma and renal carcinoma.