Research

Current Research Highlights

Risk Stratification and Early Detection
The Yale Cancer Center Thoracic Oncology Program is working to develop a well-defined approach to risk assessment and early detection for lung cancer.  Using tissue samples from our patients, we are identifying genomic markers that will enable us to determine which patients are at increased risk for developing lung cancer.  The study of markers of progression to lung cancer is also underway to identify high risk populations who should remain under close surveillance for the development of lung cancer. 

Tracheal Replacement Program
Major airway obstruction is an uncommon side effect of thoracic malignancies and treatment, however when diagnosed it creates a major problem for patients.   The only procedure that has been clinically successful in overcoming major airway obstruction involves a tracheal replacement.  The Yale Cancer Center Thoracic Oncology Program is focused on research initiatives to create the first bioengineered tracheal replacement.

Molecular Characterization of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer represents a mixture of tumor types and therefore, each type of tumor responds differently to treatment of the disease.  The best example of this is the use of EGFR inhibitor drugs, which are of little benefit to lung cancer patients in general, but provide prolonged survival in patients identified as having an EGFR mutation.  Using new technology at Yale Cancer Center, AQUA, to identify the protein characterization of a patient’s tumor, the Thoracic Oncology Program is developing new and easier ways to identify the molecular classification of tumors.  This information will help clinicians to select the best therapy for their patients.