Douglas Stairs

Douglas Stairs serves as an Associate Professor with dual appointments at Penn State University: in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (Division of Experimental Pathology) and the Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics. He is affiliated with the Penn State Cancer Institute and the Center for Cannabis and Natural Product Pharmaceuticals (CCNPP), focusing his research on understanding the molecular mechanisms of esophageal cancer initiation and progression.

Dr. Stairs' research interests center on esophageal cancer biology, particularly examining the role of p120-catenin as a tumor suppressor, Barrett's Esophagus progression mechanisms, and molecular pathways involved in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. His work spans molecular oncology, cancer genetics, and translational research with implications for early detection and prevention strategies.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on molecular mechanisms of esophageal carcinogenesis, with particular attention to p120-catenin signaling, Barrett's Esophagus progression to adenocarcinoma, and novel therapeutic approaches including nanoparticle-based delivery systems. His research bridges basic science with clinical applications, particularly in cancer interception and prevention.

Dr. Stairs has secured significant research funding, including three National Cancer Institute grants focused on p120-catenin tumor suppressor activities in esophageal cancer. His collaborative research network spans multiple institutions, with particular emphasis on head and neck cancer research and chemoprevention strategies using natural compounds like black raspberry.

His laboratory work integrates molecular biology techniques with animal models to investigate tissue renewal, differentiation pathways, and carcinogen effects in the esophagus and oral cavity. Current projects appear focused on developing novel therapeutic approaches for esophageal cancer prevention and treatment through molecular targeting and nanomedicine applications.