Investigator Highlight
Dr. Michael Wyatt is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Drug Discovery & Biomedical Sciences at the University of South Carolina, College of Pharmacy. Dr. Wyatt is a cancer pharmacologist with over 30 years of experience studying the mechanisms of action of anticancer therapeutics. His work focuses on drug development, DNA repair, and identifying novel strategies to target cancer more effectively. He has led and collaborated on numerous NIH-funded projects and is recognized for advancing translational cancer research and mentoring the next generation of scientists.
Research Team
- Principal Investigator: Dr. Michael Wyatt, Professor and Chair, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina
- Clinical Collaborator: Dr. Stuart Cramer, Director, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Prisma Health, Columbia, S.C.
- Co-Investigator: Dr. Mengqian Chen, Assistant Professor, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina
- Co-Investigator: Dr. Campbell McInnes, Professor, Medicinal Chemistry College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina
- Co-Investigator: Dr. Phillip Buckhaults, Professor, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina
About the Project
For this project, the team aims to establish the workflow for growing and testing pediatric patient-derived tumor organoids in the Midlands and will use innovative drug-screening approaches to test approved oncology drugs and abbapolins (experimental drugs that block PLK1) in pediatric cancer models. By linking drug responses with tumor-specific genetic changes, the study will generate evidence to help guide future personalized treatment options for children with cancer.
Why This Research Matters
Pediatric cancer patients in South Carolina face limited treatment options, particularly for relapsed or difficult-to-treat cases. This project aims to develop innovative and personalized therapies to improve survival.
Interested in Learning More?
For additional information about this study, please contact: Dr. Wyatt - wyatt@cop.sc.edu