Stem Cell Niche

The mammary gland as a versatile model system to study adult stem cell function. Image shows mammary gland reconstituted with GFP-expressing mammary stem cells.

TUMORIGENESIS IN SINGLE CELL RESOLUTION

Keratin-8 and -14 double positive cells emerge during MMP3-induced tumorigenesis. We analyze the early tumorigenic changes of the mammary system in single cell resolution.

INFLAMMATION AND CANCER

Neutrophil granulocytes (yellow) extravasating from blood vessels into inflamed tissue. We study the role of secreted proteases as mediators of inflammation in the tumor microenvironment.

JOIN THE LAB

The lab is located in Sprague Hall, the home of the UCI Cancer Research Institute

RESEARCH OVERVIEW

We study cellular communication on a systems-level in the context of normal tissue homeostasis and in breast cancer to ultimately improve methods of early detection, cancer treatment and potentially cancer prevention.

PUBLICATIONS

Overview of recent featured publications and complete list of research articles. Find out more about our published work here.

JOIN THE LAB

We are looking to hire new talent. If you are passionate about science and innovation, and if you are interested in stem cell and cancer research, find out here how to join the lab.

AFFILIATIONS:

CURRENT FUNDING:

RESEARCH GOALS

The Kessenbrock Lab studies cellular communication in single cell resolution in the context of normal tissue homeostasis and in breast cancer. We want to understand how stem cell behavior is extrinsically regulated by the microenvironment of the mammary stem cell niche and learn how the molecular composition of the niche changes during tumorigenesis. Our interdisciplinary research approach will identify biomarkers for early detection and may ultimately lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches to treat or even prevent breast cancer before it develops.

Stem Cell Niche

TUMORIGENESIS IN SINGLE CELL RESOLUTION

INFLAMMATION AND CANCER

JOIN THE LAB

RESEARCH GOALS

Kai Kessenbrock, Ph.D.

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