J. Alan Diehl

J. Alan Diehl, PhD, is Chair and Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University. He also serves as Deputy Director of the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center and is a member of the Molecular Oncology Program. His leadership roles reflect his significant contributions to cancer research and academic medicine.

Research Interests: Dr. Diehl's research centers on the molecular mechanisms of cancer initiation and progression, with emphasis on cell cycle regulation, post-translational modifications, and stress signaling pathways. His lab investigates how growth-signaling pathways regulate cyclin D/CDK4/6 kinases and how E3 ubiquitin ligases maintain cyclin D1 levels. He also explores the interplay between lipid signaling, epigenetics, and the unfolded protein response in tumor progression. A major focus is on acquired resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors and the role of non-coding RNAs and circadian clock disruption in cancer survival.

Publication Trends: His recent publications (2015–2021) reveal a strong focus on therapeutic resistance mechanisms, particularly to CDK4/6 inhibitors, using models of melanoma, lymphoma, esophageal, and head and neck cancers. The work integrates signaling pathways (PERK, mTORC1), metabolic dependencies (glutamine addiction), and ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis to uncover novel therapeutic vulnerabilities.

Scientific Leadership and Recognition: While no specific awards are listed, his role as Deputy Director of a comprehensive cancer center and frequent publications in high-impact journals (e.g., Nature Communications, Science Advances, Cancer Discovery) underscore his leadership and scientific influence.

Advising and Grants: Although specific students and grants are not named, Dr. Diehl leads an active research laboratory with consistent funding, as evidenced by his extensive publication record and leadership roles. His frequent co-authorship with postdoctoral researchers and junior scientists suggests active mentorship in training the next generation of cancer biologists.

Laboratories and Research Teams: Dr. Diehl leads a research lab focused on cancer signaling and stress response, affiliated with the Molecular Oncology Program at the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. His collaborative work involves teams across institutions, particularly in studies involving PERK, miRNA regulation, and metabolic reprogramming in cancer.