Dr.Jeffrey Norris, D.V.M., Ph.D.

Mutations in the oncogene Kras occur in up to 80% of cancers and are most prevalent in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic cancer, and colon cancer. Mutant Kras proteins are continuously active and drive cancer by increasing cell proliferation, which leads to tumor formation. While drugs that directly target mutant Kras proteins are under development, these mutant enzymes are difficult to inhibit.

Carcinogens in tobacco products cause mutations in Kras, and there is a significant association between tobacco use and Kras-driven cancer. Epidemiological studies have also identified positive associations between the occurrence of these cancers and consumption of a Western diet. Elucidating the mechanisms by which Western diet promotes the development of Kras-driven cancer may provide new targets for the treatment and prevention of Kras-driven cancer.

Dr. Norris' laboratory, and others, have shown that Western diet increased tumorigenesis in preclinical models of Kras-driven NSCLC. Increased tumor cell survival seems to underlie this increase in tumorigenesis. Dr. Norris' laboratory is focused on understanding how changes in circulating hormones and cytokines associated with Western diet promote tumor cell survival directly and through diminished immune surveillance.

Dr. Norris' laboratory is also engaged in collaborative projects in the areas of veterinary pharmacology, with Drs. Waitt Wolker and Veltri, and in the metabolic response of cancer cells to energy stress, with Dr. Korch. Students interested in research in these three research areas are encouraged to email Dr. Norris regarding current opportunities in the laboratory.
Dietary Promotion of Lung Cancer
Metabolic Response of Cancer Cells to Energy Stress
Veterinary Pharmacology