Michelle Farkas
Research areas include the development of cell-based imaging and drug delivery agents and nanoparticle-based carriers for therapeutics, toward immunomodulation and the treatment of cancer.
Current Research
Our laboratory’s work involves the development and use of molecular tools to further understand, image, and treat cancer subtypes. We are using chemical methodologies to: (1) convert cells into imaging agents and investigate their use as therapeutics, (2) understand the roles of macrophages in cancer, and (3) probe the underlying association between altered circadian rhythms and cancer. This work will not only change the way that cancer is studied, but will result in new treatment strategies.
Macrophages are often associated with the tumor microenvironment, and facilitate cancer progression and metastasis while suppressing the immune response. We will directly modify these and other tumor-tropic cells with detectable agents to visualize the presence of primary tumors and metastases, and use environment-sensitive linkers to attach chemotherapeutics that will be released in a site-specific manner. We are also undertaking studies with small molecules to convert macrophages from tumor-promoting to tumor-fighting entities, to use them as therapeutics.
Improved methods for delivery of nucleic acids (RNA, DNA) can facilitate their use as treatments. In collaboration with Vincent Rotello’s group (UMass, Chemistry), we are investigating the use of nanoparticle-stabilized capsules to transport therapeutic RNA molecules across the cell membrane. These RNAs are intended to down-regulate the expression of cancer associated genes, in immunomodulation applications, and will be used in relevant models of disease.
Learn more at elements.chem.umass.edu/farkasgroup/
Academic Background
- BA Wellesley College, 2001
- PhD California Institute of Technology, 2010
- Postdoctoral Training: DOD-BCRP Postdoctoral Fellow, University of California, Berkeley, 2010-2013