Nancy Ratner

Nancy Ratner is a Professor at the University of Cincinnati, affiliated with Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Her research focuses on Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic disorder causing peripheral nerve tumors and systemic complications. She investigates the molecular mechanisms linking NF1 mutations to tumor formation, emphasizing Ras signaling, mitochondrial metabolism, and microenvironment interactions.

• Identified EGFR and MEK as therapeutic targets
• Developed mouse models for neurofibroma and MPNST
• Collaborates on clinical trials for NF1-related tumors

Research Themes: Her work spans NF1 tumor biology, oncogenic pathways, and pharmacological interventions. Recent studies highlight mitochondrial vulnerabilities and inflammatory gene signatures in NF1-deficient cells. She explores combination therapies targeting MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways to suppress tumor growth.

Article Trends: Her publications address MPNST pathogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, and immune profiling in NF1. She investigates Wnt/β-catenin, STAT3, and TAZ/YAP pathways in tumor initiation and maintenance.

• Grants: Funded by federal agencies (NIH, Department of Defense) and private foundations
• Collaborations: Works with institutions like Children's Tumor Foundation, University of Minnesota, and MD Anderson Cancer Center