Darryl T. Martin, PhD

Project 1 - Defining distant metastasis

• Metastasis is a multi-step cascade involving cancer cell intravasation, circulatory survival, extravasation, and colonization of distant organs. We are focused on elucidating the biologic factors (i.e., testosterone, cytokines) and molecular determinants (i.e., CTCs, EMT, MMPs) that contribute to establishing distant metastasis. Using human-relevant murine models, we observe that metastatic inhibition can impact phenotypic plasticity, characterized by state transitions and tumor microenvironment remodeling.

Project 2 - Modulating the tumor microenvironment

• The Martin Lab is investigating strategies to understand the interaction of human immune cells and tumor cells within the tumor microenvironment. Our group is focused on transforming an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment into an immune activate state that is conducive to invoke an anti-tumor response. Our group is investigating T cell recruitment mechanisms in urologic cancers using a combination of patient specimens and human-relevant murine models.

Project 3 - Enhancing tumor detection and targeting

• Surface modified nanoparticles provide an effective system for the delivery of drugs to malignant tissues that can be delivered locally (i.e., intravesically) or systemically with potentially enhanced cytotoxicity. We have developed tumor-homing nanoparticles that have high tumor specificity with little off target effects and excellent tumor coverage. Currently, we are screening for new potential nanoparticle ligands that will enhance tumor targeting and simultaneously activate the tumor microenvironment.