Weizhou Zhang, Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, UF College of Medicine
Based on molecular features, breast cancer can be divided into several major subtypes such as luminal breast cancer, HER2-enriched and basal-like breast cancer. This is one of the first steps for precision therapy since different subtypes of breast cancer are treated differently. Here, we will introduce the different molecular features of breast cancer subtypes, fundamentals for different treatment options, modifiable risk factors and updates in current stages of precision therapy, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Among all breast cancer subtypes, basal-like breast cancer is considered the most aggressive breast cancer subtype. We will go a bit in depth for this subtype and identify some new targets for potential therapeutic interventions. Dr. Zhang’s laboratory has been developing novel drugs for targeting breast cancer metastasis.
Dr. Weizhou Zhang is a professor at the Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine and a cancer scientist at the University of Florida Health Cancer Center. Dr. Zhang has led an active research group in breast cancer for the last two decades.
Core Standards
SC.912.L.16.8 Explain the relationship between mutation, cell cycle, and uncontrolled cell growth potentially resulting in cancer.
SC.912.L.16.10 Evaluate the impact of biotechnology on the individual, society and the environment, including medical and ethical issues
SC.912.N.4.2 Weigh the merits of alternative strategies for solving a specific societal problem by comparing a number of different costs and benefits, such as human, economic, and environmental.
SC.912.L.14.52 Explain the basic functions of the human immune system, including specific and nonspecific immune response, vaccines, and antibiotics.
SC.912.L.14.6 Explain the significance of genetic factors, environmental factors, and pathogenic agents to health from the perspectives of both individual and public health
