معرفی
Julia J. Unternaehrer, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the School of Medicine at Loma Linda University, holding joint appointments in Basic Sciences (Biochemistry Division) and Gynecology & Obstetrics. She serves as Vice Chair of Basic Sciences, Co-Program Director for the Cancer, Developmental & Regenerative Biology Program, and directs the Flow Cytometry and Patient-Derived Xenograft Core Facilities. Her research focuses on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), microRNA regulation, and cancer stem cells, particularly in ovarian cancer progression and therapy resistance. She completed her PhD in Immunology at Yale University and postdoctoral training in stem cell biology at Harvard Medical School.
Education:
- PhD, Yale University, 2004
- Master of Philosophy, Yale University, 2004
- Bachelor of Science, Loma Linda University, 1987
Research Interests: Dr. Unternaehrer investigates the interplay between EMT factors (e.g., Snail) and microRNAs (e.g., let-7) in cancer development and metastasis. Her lab uses ovarian cancer models to study stemness, drug resistance mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies targeting EMT pathways.
Key Themes in Publications: Recent work emphasizes microRNA regulation in cancer aggressiveness, radiation therapy outcomes, and health disparities in ovarian cancer care. Her studies highlight let-7's role as a tumor suppressor and Snail's dual function in reprogramming and oncogenesis.
Awards & Grants: Dr. Unternaehrer has secured NIH-funded grants and foundation support for projects like reversing chemoresistance in ovarian cancer and improving BRCA testing rates in Latina populations. She leads initiatives in translational cancer research and precision medicine.
Labs & Teams: Directs core facilities supporting flow cytometry and patient-derived xenograft models. Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams in oncology, stem cell biology, and developmental biology.
