2. Deciphering the Early Tumorigenic Niche That Governs APC-Mutant Clone Selection

We investigate the mechanisms that enable APC-mutant cells to selectively survive and expand in the colorectal epithelium, focusing on the tissue-specific selection of APC mutations during the earliest stages of colorectal tumorigenesis.

Using clinical specimens from patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), genetically engineered mouse models, and organoids, we investigate the interactions between APC-mutant epithelial cells and the surrounding tissue microenvironment, with a particular focus on stromal fibroblasts.

By comparing APC-mutant cells with cells harboring activating mutations in β-catenin (CTNNB1), we aim to identify mechanisms underlying the selective advantage of APC mutations and discover novel targets for cancer prevention and early therapeutic intervention.