Nancy Krucher

Nancy Krucher is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Pace University's Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, where she conducts active research in cancer biology and mentors undergraduate and graduate students in the laboratory. She is based in Dyson Hall, Pleasantville campus, and teaches a wide range of courses in molecular and cellular biology.

Education:

• PhD in Cellular Biology, Clarkson University, 1995
• BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Syracuse University, 1988

Her research is focused on understanding and overcoming targeted therapy resistance in cancers such as melanoma and breast cancer. She investigates the role of metabolic pathways and cell cycle regulators like the Retinoblastoma protein (Rb) in promoting resistance, with a particular emphasis on combination therapies involving metabolism inhibitors (e.g., ACLY inhibitors) and existing clinical drugs. Her work aims to improve long-term efficacy of cancer treatments by blocking escape mechanisms in tumor cells.

The recent publications highlight a consistent focus on molecular mechanisms of therapy resistance, particularly through modulation of Rb phosphorylation and metabolic reprogramming. Trends show a shift toward combinatorial approaches targeting both signaling and metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer cells, with applications in breast, pancreatic, and skin cancers.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• National Cancer Institute (NCI) grant: $400,241 (2022–2025) for research on overcoming therapy resistance in breast cancer and melanoma

Dr. Krucher is actively involved in mentoring students in research, with recent projects involving undergraduates Anastasiia Vaska and Michael Ferretti. Her grant-funded work supports student participation in cutting-edge cancer research. She has secured federal sponsorship from the NIH, underscoring the national significance of her work. She teaches courses including Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and independent research, fostering a research-integrated learning environment.

She leads a research laboratory focused on cancer signaling and therapy resistance, where students gain hands-on experience in molecular techniques and experimental design. Her lab is currently investigating the role of ATP-citrate lyase (ACLY) in therapy resistance, supported by active NIH funding.