Christopher R Mueller

Christopher R. Mueller is a Full Professor in the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University at Kingston. He has been a full professor since June 2006 and maintains his research laboratory at the Cancer Research Laboratories located at 10 Stuart St, Kingston, ON. Dr. Mueller is also affiliated with the Cancer Biology & Genetics division of the Queen's Cancer Research Institute and is a member of the Translational Institute of Medicine (TIME).

Dr. Mueller received his BSc Honours in Integrated Science Studies from Carleton University (1980), followed by a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from McGill University (1986), and completed his Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Molecular Biology at the University of Geneva (1989).

His primary research focuses on developing liquid biopsy approaches for cancer detection and monitoring. His laboratory has pioneered DNA methylation-based blood tests for various cancers including breast, lung, prostate, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers. A key aspect of his work involves studying the relationship between the Glucocorticoid Receptor, BRCA1, and the Estrogen Receptor in breast tumorigenesis. His research identified methylation of the Glucocorticoid Receptor promoter as a potential biomarker predicting lack of response to anti-estrogen therapy in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients.

Dr. Mueller's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on translating laboratory discoveries into clinical applications. His work on DNA methylation-based liquid biopsies spans multiple cancer types, with particular emphasis on breast cancer subtypes. The research shows a progression from basic molecular mechanisms to clinical validation studies, highlighting his commitment to translational research that directly impacts patient care.

• A DNA methylation-based liquid biopsy for triple-negative breast cancer (2021)
• Development and initial clinical correlation of a DNA methylation-based blood test for prostate cancer (2020)
• Region-specific glucocorticoid receptor promoter methylation studies in breast cancer (2019)

Through his research, Dr. Mueller is helping transform oncology practice by developing tools that enable earlier cancer detection, better treatment selection, and more effective monitoring of treatment response. His work bridges basic molecular research with clinical applications, positioning him at the forefront of precision oncology.