Chunming Liu

Chunming Liu, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry at the University of Kentucky, with a joint affiliation at the Markey Cancer Center. His research is centered on the molecular mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its crosstalk with other pathways in human cancers, particularly colorectal, gastrointestinal, and lung cancers.

• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Harvard Medical School, 2003
• Ph.D., Purdue University, 1997
• B.S., Nankai University, 1988

Dr. Liu’s research focuses on understanding how dysregulation of Wnt signaling contributes to tumorigenesis, with a particular emphasis on β-catenin stabilization and the role of tumor suppressors like KLF4. His lab has identified novel components of the Wnt pathway and developed small-molecule inhibitors for cancer therapy. He collaborates extensively with clinicians and medicinal chemists to translate mechanistic insights into novel therapeutics.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in targeting Wnt signaling through small molecules, epigenetic modulators, and metabolic disruptors. His work spans drug discovery, molecular oncology, and translational models, including zebrafish and xenografts, with applications in colorectal, ovarian, and breast cancers. There is a clear focus on combination therapies and cancer stem cells.

While specific scientific awards are not listed, Dr. Liu’s extensive publication record in high-impact journals such as Nature, Cell, PNAS, and Cancer Research underscores his significant contributions to the field.

Dr. Liu has advised numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom appear as co-authors on his publications. His collaborations include grants with the Markey Cancer Center and joint projects in drug development. His lab is involved in both basic mechanistic studies and applied pharmacological research.

He leads a multidisciplinary research team that integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and medicinal chemistry to investigate oncogenic signaling and develop novel anti-cancer agents. His lab collaborates with structural biologists and pharmacokinetics experts, particularly in the development and testing of fluorinated stilbenes and urea-based inhibitors.