Daochun Sun

Daochun Sun, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy at the Medical College of Wisconsin. His research focuses on understanding tumor heterogeneity and cancer stem cells in NF1-associated tumors such as plexiform neurofibromas (PN), malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST), and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Dr. Sun holds a PhD in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Wayne State University and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. His work integrates developmental biology principles with cancer research to explore mechanisms underlying tumor initiation, recurrence, and metastasis.

Research Interests:

• Stem-like tumor cells in NF1-associated tumors
• Targeting tumor progression and metastasis
• Biological big data analysis for precision medicine
• Developmental origins of cancer

Key contributions include identifying stem cell populations driving tumor recurrence and demonstrating how microenvironmental interactions influence MPNST relapse. His lab uses mouse models, patient-derived xenografts, and multi-omics approaches to develop therapeutic strategies.

Publications highlight innovative work in drug repurposing (e.g., hydroxychloroquine), cancer stem cell biology, and functional heterogeneity in glioblastoma. Research trends emphasize translational applications of big data analysis and targeted therapies.

Lab activities focus on:

• Single-cell sequencing of PN tumors
• Mouse model-based drug screening
• RASopathies collaborative research networks