The Tsichlis Laboratory uses insertional mutagenesis and other genetic strategies to identify genes that are involved in oncogenesis, or regulate phenotypic changes in tumor cells. Genes identified via these strategies are used as probes to explore function from the molecular to the animal level. Some of the genes we have identified and exploited to date include Akt1, Tpl2, Gfi-1 and Gfi-1B. Our work highlights the value of genetic studies in animal models for understanding the molecular basis of cancer and other diseases in humans.

Currently, the laboratory engages in three research areas: 1) the identification and characterization of novel oncogenes involved in the induction and progression of retrovirus-induced lymphomas in rodents. To do this we employ genome-wide insertional mutagenesis strategies. 2) the regulation and function of oncogenic kinases such as, Akt1, Akt2, Akt3 and Tpl2. Regarding the functional characterization of the Akt kinases, we are focusing on their role in the regulation of gene expression, oncogenesis and hematopoietic and lymphoid cell development and function. Regarding Tpl2, we are mapping postranslational modifications that regulate its activation by Toll-like receptor and Death receptor signals. In addition, we are exploring its role in the regulation of gene expression, as well as in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity, inflammation and oncogenesis; 3) the regulation of Gfi-1 by upstream signals in lymphoid cells.