Jennifer Amrein

Approximately, 1 out of every 23 people will develop colorectal cancer (CRC).  Microbial dysbiosis is a common feature present within the CRC tumor microenvironment and is associated with enhanced tumor progression and poor outcomes.  Therefore, it is critical to understand the cellular changes occurring that can impact the balance of microbial species as a means to controlling tumor progression.  Our studies focus on an mRNA binding protein, Tristetraprolin, that is responsible for controlling expression levels of various growth factors and inflammatory mediators.  Preliminary research indicates that the loss of TTP expression in CRC impacts the colonic environment in a way that promotes microbial dysbiosis.  Our research aims to examine TTPs role in regulating the intestinal microbiome and the effect that its loss has on cancer development and progression.