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Environmental Carcinogenesis Division (ECD)
Organization | Molecular Toxicology Branch
ECD Navigation
The Molecular Toxicology Branch provides an integration with the Cellular Toxicology Branch such that similar problems are addressed but at the molecular and cellular levels, respectively. In a broad sense the Molecular Toxicology Branch assesses genotype and the Cellular Toxicology Branch studies phenotype. The Molecular Toxicology Branch develops molecular markers of response, particularly those related to specific changes in particular tumor types. These biomarkers are used, together with cellular biomarkers to predict the probability of cancer induction by environmental chemicals at low levels of exposure. The Branch uses molecular approaches to address questions of mode of action for specific chemicals of importance to the Agency. The information generated can be incorporated into biologically-based dose response models for human cancer risk assessments. Models based on chemical structure and activity are used to predict carcinogenic potential, and to help determine the selection of the chemicals for new research studies. Models based on mechanistic information or supposition are also used to provide guidance in establishing the types of data that need to be collected to reduce uncertainty in cancer risk assessment models. Current molecular methods and computer models are used in the research, allowing for sophisticated approaches to address the mechanisms by which environmental chemicals can induce tumors.
Acting Branch Chief
Don Delker
Staff
|
Linda Adams Maribel Bruno Don Delker David DeMarini Rachel Grindstaff Yue Ge Nancy Hanley |
Carlton Jones Leon King Geremy Knapp Pedro Ortiz Barbara Roop Sheau-Fung Thai Witold Winnik |
