The principal research focus of our group is to elucidate the molecular mechanism of hormonal (androgen and estrogen) receptors, their cofactors, and their target genes in the development of endocrine organs and malignancies, including breast and prostate cancers. In particular, we are interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of androgen-independent prostate cancer. A compelling element of our research is to understand how the expression and function of proteins in the stromal androgen receptor (AR) pathway influences the stromal-epithelial interactions, contributing to tumorigenesis. The long term goal of the lab is to apply these findings to clinically relevant issues; to identify prognostic or predictive biomarkers, and to discover novel therapeutic strategies for these cancers.