Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Sharjah
nationality
Palestinian Territories
innovation
Targeting the epigenetic modulator CBP to disrupt DNA repair mechanisms, enhancing breast cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapy and reducing resistance
Wafaa's research focuses on enhancing chemotherapy responsiveness by targeting epigenetic mechanisms, specifically CBP (CREB-binding protein), which is overexpressed in breast cancer cells. CBP helps breast cancer cells to survive under chemotherapy treatment by facilitating DNA damage repair through the acetylation of repair proteins, thereby enhancing their activation. This process allows the cancer cells to resist treatment and adapt to DNA damage. By inhibiting CBP, we aim to disrupt this repair pathway, making the cancer cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy-induced damage. This strategy not only boosts chemotherapy effectiveness but also reduces the required dosage, minimizing harmful side effects. Additionally, by using CBP expression levels as a biomarker, it is possible to personalize treatments based on each patient’s unique profile, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and quality of life.
A unique aspect of her research is its potential to combine epigenetic modulation with chemotherapy to create a more precise and adaptable treatment strategy.