Research Focus

Our group has invented an inexpensive and noninvasive screening test based on solCD44 and total protein levels in oral rinse specimens, which helps distinguish individuals with molecular features associated with oral cancer from the billions at risk due to tobacco and alcohol use and  human HPV infection. Our research interests include human oral cancer risk, prevention and treatment. We focus on characterizing salivary molecular markers for application as inexpensive and noninvasive early detection tests, and investigating CD44 as potential target for oral cancer therapy.