Workshop on Techniques in Modeling Human Cancer in Mice 2012

Cancer is a genetically complex and biologically heterogeneous group of disorders. It has become increasingly clear that the laboratory mouse, the best genetically defined experimental model organism for humans, presents a major opportunity for rapid advancement in understanding the genetic basis and underlying biology of cancer. The overall goal for our course, "Workshop on Techniques in Modeling Human Cancer in Mice', is to train a small group of young scientists (predoctoral, postdoctoral trainees, new investigators) in the use of genetically defined laboratory mice as genetic tools for asking questions about gene function and the role of genetics in the biology of cancer. A major goal of this intensive hands-on workshop is to provide students an experience with a variety of manipulations using commonly used mouse models that can be adapted for their own unique models. Students completing the course acquire a practical knowledge of how to characterize and analyze specific mouse cancer models, and skills in a variety of cancer model manipulations so that students will have a broad skill set to apply techniques and manipulations to their own mouse cancer modeling research. Although the practical laboratory sessions will use breast, prostate and colorectal cancer models, the techniques learned are broadly applicable to many cancer types. Didactic lectures will reflect other organ sites and will emphasize common themes in cancer research and modeling. Lectures will be given in the morning, followed by intensive laboratory sessions whereby students will gain hands on experience in the manipulation and analysis of representative mouse models. Sessions will include fixed and live cell imaging techniques, cytometry, surgical approaches to the implantation of tumors, and pathology.

The course takes place over a period of 7 days and is limited to 16 young investigators chosen for their outstanding research potential. The size of the class