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Research

             "In the United States in 2021, 1,777,566 new cancer cases were reported. In the United States in 2022, 608,366 people died of cancer” (Source: CDC.gov). Studies indicated breast, prostate, lung and colorectal cancers are the most common cancer types in America (Source: Cancer.gov). At Dr. Francia’s laboratory at the University of Texas at El Paso, we are dedicated to advancing the fight against breast, prostate and other metastatic cancers through innovative research, strategic collaborations and the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Our team of scientists and professionals are committed to uncovering the biological mechanisms of underlying these cancers. With particular focus on exploring the potential of metronomic chemotherapy- an emerging treatment strategy that aims to improve outcomes while minimizing side effects. To achieve this, we employ a wide range of sophisticated lab techniques including, Western blotting, ELISA assays, immunohistochemistry (IHC), Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR) and cell culture to investigate the molecular mechanisms of metastatic cancer. Additionally, our research includes animal studies using mouse models to better understand tumor progression and test novel treatments. By combining these powerful research methods with our focus on metronomic chemotherapy, we aim to develop more effective sustainable solutions for patients. The support of the community is vital to the success of our research. Whether by donating, participating in awareness campaigns, or helping fund critical research projects, your involvement can directly contribute to accelerating breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to those affected by metastatic cancer. Through ongoing collaborations, community support and relentless scientific inquiry, Dr. Francia and the laboratory team aim to make a significant impact in the global effort to understand, treat and ultimately diminish our targeted metastatic cancer tumors.  

Recent Publications/Posters

Publications

  • Dissecting the role of vitamin B12 metabolism in craniofacial development through analysis of clinical phenotypes and model organism discoveries Differentiation (2024), Briana E. Pinales, Carlos E. Palomino, German Rosas-Acosta, Giulio Francia, Anita M. Quintana.

  • Analysis of 81 plasma cytokine levels in a phase II trial of gastrointestinal cancer patients treated with metronomic chemotherapy; incorporation of Artificial Intelligence and mathematical modeling AACR Annual Meeting (2024), L Manca, B Pinales, J Silva Espinoza, R Steart, D Prospero, M Frias, M Montelongo, H Padilla, C Perucho, B Ortega, V Lopez, M Silva, G Allegrini, Giulio Francia.

  • History of metronomic chemotherapy (2024), Diana Prospero, C Perucho, V Lopez, Giulio Francia.

  • Melanocortin-4 receptor antagonism inhibits colorectal and anaplastic thyroid cancer in vitro and in vivo J Clin Med 2024 (In Press) (in press), Bandini A et al, , Giulio Francia, M Scarselli , G Bocci.

  • Blood Vessels Distribution in Mouse Tissue UTEP COURI - WINNER 2nd Best Bioscience Poster 2024 (2024), C Perucho, M Cruz, L Quijano, Giulio Francia.

   Presentations  

  • Blood Vessels Distribution in Mouse Tissue (2024), Volume Pittsburgh, PA, Valeria Lopez, Monica Cruz, Leslie Quijano, Ryley Stewart, Sarah Galindro, Briana Ortega, Raul Pineda, Biana Pinales, Luis Lopez, Hector Padilla, Diana Prospero, Saeedeh Darvishi, Anita Quintana, German Rosas-Acosta, Jonathon E. Mohl, Eugenia Martinez, Claire Eunise Perucho, Giulio Francia.

  • A Luminex Approach to Develop an Anti-Tumor-Associated Antigen Autoantibody Panel for the Detection of Prostate Cancer. (2024), Volume UTEP, C Qiu, X Wang, SA Batson, CA Casiano, Giulio Francia, Jianying Zhang.

  • Exploring erythropoietic phenotypes in zebrafish model of cblC disorder. (2024), Volume UTEP, Michelle Solano, Briana E. Pinales, Claudia B. Gil, German Rosas-Acosta, Giulio Francia, Anita M. Quintana.

  • Exploring the function of the Hspg2 proteoglycan during developmental erythropoiesis. (2024), Volume UTEP, Anita Quintana, Andrea Yanez, Briana E. Pinales, Claudia B. Gil, German Rosas-Acosta, Giulio Francia.

  • Using Luminex approach to develop a panel of anti-TAA autoantibodies for the detection of prostate cancer. (2023), Volume Orlando, FL, C Qiu, X Wang, SA Batson, CA Casiano, Giulio Francia, Jianying Zhang

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