Brooks Group

Most cancers are characterised by cellular and molecular heterogeneity and plasticity. These features can contribute to therapy resistance, as diverse and dynamically adaptable cellular subpopulations may evade treatment through multiple mechanisms, leading to recurrence. Our research focuses on understanding the contribution of intratumoral heterogeneity and plasticity to therapy resistance. We employ a range of approaches, including mass cytometry, single-cell transcriptomics, functional genomics, patient-derived models, and computational analyses, to dissect the cellular and molecular diversity and identify vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically exploited.

Current projects in the lab aim to characterise resistant and plastic tumour subpopulations, investigate adaptive resistance mechanisms, and explore strategies to overcome treatment failure. We are focused on glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive primary brain tumour, which exemplifies these challenges. Standard therapies, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, provide only temporary control, highlighting the urgent need to develop more effective treatment strategies. By uncovering the key drivers of resistance and plasticity, our ultimate goal is to develop new therapeutic approaches that improve outcomes for patients.