Upper Gastrointestinal cancers, often referred to as upper GI cancers, are a significant concern for public health. Traditional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy frequently do not provide the best results for patients dealing with upper GI cancers, leading to a high risk of mortality. Our group is led by Dr. Teresa Macarulla (MD, PhD), an expert in pancreaticobiliary cancer and a medical oncologist. Our group works closely together, combining the expertise of clinical oncologists with the innovative approach of the preclinical and translational team led by Dr. Tian Tian (MD, PhD). Our goal is to pioneer new and effective ways to treat upper GI cancers and identify key factors that can predict patient outcomes.

Central to our strategy is the combination of breakthroughs in biomarker research with cutting-edge studies on the effectiveness of drugs. This approach allows us to tailor treatment options specifically for patients with upper GI cancers. Our clinical team has played a crucial role in developing molecular therapies that target the abnormal signaling pathways in cancers like pancreatic, gastric, and bile duct cancers (cholangiocarcinoma). We have actively participated in multiple clinical trials (phases I-III) aimed at exploring innovative anti-cancer strategies for upper GI cancers. Notably, the molecules we’ve tested have received approval from both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency, providing hope for improved treatments. Moreover, our preclinical researchers are conducting in-depth investigations into the genetic and epigenetic features of these cancers using patient-derived models. This research holds promise for enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of gastric, pancreatic, and bile duct cancers, guiding us toward a brighter future in the care of upper GI cancers.

If you are interested in pursuing a clinical fellowship (medical oncology), Ph.D., or postdoctoral fellowship, please get in touch with Dr. Macarulla or Dr. Tian.