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Yayun Liang, PhD

Research Associate Professor, Department of Biomedical Sciences
Investigator, Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center
Office Location: 133D DCRC
Office Phone: 573-884-8116
LiangYa@missouri.edu

Research Interests

  • Novel targeting and molecular signaling pathways for cancer therapeutics in vitro and in animal models.
  • The role of p53 functions in the regulation of tumor growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and drug-resistance.
  • The role of VEGF regulation of tumor angiogenesis, tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance.

Research Description

The concept of specific molecular targeting has been applied to the development of innovative cancer-treatment strategies. At present, two main approaches are available for use in clinical practice: therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule agents. Both antibodies and small-molecule compounds are therefore promising tools for target-protein-based cancer therapy. Mutations in p53 or the p53 pathway are thought to play a key role in promoting tumor cell survival and tumor cell resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore restoring p53 function in tumors has been pursued as a promising strategy for cancer therapy. Furthermore, Tumor cell survival, growth, and metastasis require persistent blood vessel growth or angiogenesis. A tumor cannot grow beyond the size of about 1mm in diameter without acquiring new blood vessels to nurture it. Hence, targeting tumor blood vessels and tumor angiogenesis has been as a new strategy for treatment cancer.

The aims of Liang's research are to 1) Develop innovative cancer-treatment strategies targeting mut-p53, tumor angiogenesis, and tumor blood vessels with novel antibodies and small molecules in advanced breast cancer models; 2) Define molecular signaling pathways involved in inhibition of tumor angiogenesis and induction of tumor cell apoptosis; and (c) Define the role of VEGF in tumor angiogenesis, growth, metastasis, and drug resistance.

Professional Background

  • Obtained PhD in pharmacology, Beijing Medical University (Present: Health Science Center, Peking University), Beijing, China, October 1981.
  • Obtained PharmD, Beijing Medical University (Present: Health Science Center, Peking University) Beijing, China, March 1976.

Selected Publications


Published by Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, 1500 Research Park Drive, Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573-882-7588 Email: mailto:dalton@missouri.edu