Jennifer Schutzman

About Jennifer Schutzman

Many genes that are critical for proper embryonic development are disregulated in human cancers. For example, Sprouty genes (Spry1 and Spry2) are both critical for neuronal and early prostate gland development and have also been shown to be downregulated in prostate cancer specimens from some men with prostate cancer. Dr. Schutzman is studying the function of Spry1 and Spry2 during prostate development as well as in prostate tumor growth (tumorigenesis). Early data suggests that Sprouty genes are important inhibitors of cellular proliferation and survival pathways critical in prostate cancer initiation and progression. Dr. Schutzman’s work will define how Spry genes function in the development of prostate cancer. Her work may provide essential information necessary to identify new therapeutic targets for the treatment of prostate cancer.