Carr-Ascher Lab
Leading innovation in sarcoma biology and treatment
The Carr-Ascher Laboratory is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive sarcoma development and metastasis, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets for these aggressive cancers. Using innovative models of sarcoma initiation and metastatic progression, we investigate how cells undergo malignant transformation and acquire the ability to spread to distant sites, particularly the lungs.
A central focus of the lab is defining key epigenetic regulatory mechanisms that govern sarcoma lung metastasis — uncovering how changes in chromatin architecture and gene expression programs enable metastatic colonization. We are also actively investigating the role of Hippo signaling in sarcoma development, working to define how dysregulation of this pathway contributes to oncogenic transformation and characterizing the intracellular environment during the critical transition to a sarcomatous state.
Together, these projects aim to build a comprehensive picture of sarcoma biology from early development through metastatic spread, ultimately informing new strategies for diagnosis and treatment.
-
Janai R. Carr-Ascher, M.D., Ph.D.
Read biographyAssistant Professor
Janai Carr-Ascher is a physician-scientist, sarcoma oncologist and principal investigator at UC Davis Health. With appointments in the Division of Hematology and Oncology and the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, she leads a research program focused on understanding the biology of sarcoma and identifying new treatment opportunities. Her laboratory uses in vivo models to investigate sarcoma heterogeneity, tumor development, progression and metastasis, with the goal of advancing therapies and improving patient outcomes.
Explore the Carr-Ascher Lab
Current Projects:
- Identifying key points of epigenetic regulation of sarcoma lung metastasis
- Investigating the role of Hippo signaling in sarcoma development
-
Julissa Suarez-Navarro, PhD Student
Julissa's research currently focuses on characterizing drivers of sarcoma development and metastasis. In her spare time, she likes to read, crochet, and bake.
-
Jessica Bergonio, Research Specialist
Jessica is currently working on investigating the role and mechanism of CHOP in high-grade sarcomas, as well as determining the relationship between HIPPO signaling players: YAP1, TAZ, and VGLL3 in sarcoma development. In her spare time, Jessica likes to watch TV shows, draw, and color.
-
Caroline Quintero, Volunteer
Caroline is currently working on a project with her lab partner Lily in the Carr-Ascher Lab. They're trying to determine the pathway and functions of both upstream and downstream proteins in the UPR system. She's also helping out with the main sarcoma cancer focused HIPPO signaling project in the lab. Outside of the lab, Caroline enjoys sketching, working out, and having fun with family and friends.
-
Lily Wen, Volunteer
Lily is interested in studying molecular biology and physiology, and how it relates to healthcare. Outside the lab, Lily is a sports enthusiast and is part of the UC Davis Dragon Boat team!
All papers can be found on PubMed through the National Library of Medicine.