RESEARCH INTERESTS: The research in Dr. Zhang's laboratory focuses primarily on cancer biology and experimental therapeutics. In cancer biology, we are investigating how eukaryotic translation initiation factors are involved in regulating gene expression, signal transduction, cell growth and differentiation. More specifically, we are interested in the role of eIF3 complex in Wnt/beta-catenin signaling, tumorigenesis and cancer prognosis. In experimental therapeutics, we are interested in multiple mechanisms of drug resistance including studies on ABC transporters, 14-3-sigma, survivin and fatty acid synthase. We also perform drug discovery research targeting these proteins and various other known targets using chemoinformatics and rational design.