The Squarize Lab investigates the function of the key signaling pathways and stem cells in epithelial regeneration and disease.

My broad research interests are in tumor angiogenesis and stem cell biology. My current research foci are the study of mechanisms regulating the vascularization of head and neck tumors, and the impact of cancer stem cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas and salivary gland cancer.

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are the most therapeutically exploited adult stem cells, used routinely to treat leukemia and hematologic disease via HSC transplantation. Every year in the United States, 20,000 HSCTs are performed. However, problems remain with this treatment.

The McCauley/Roca Lab researches hormonal controls of bone remodeling, anabolic actions of parathyroid hormone (PTH), parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP), and the impact and therapeutic potential of PTH in craniofacial osseous wound healing.

TThe Lombaert Lab determines how stem cells participate in the formation of branching organs (e.g., salivary glands) and how they respond to various external and internal cues in normal, damaged or diseased environments.

Dr. Franceschi’s laboratory studies the signals regulating the formation and functioning of osteoblasts, cells that produce and mineralize the extracellular matrix of bone.

The D'Silva Lab's translational research focus is head and neck cancer, including biomarkers for early detection and treatment resistance, and molecular mechanisms of tumor progression and treatment resistance.

The goal of our laboratory is to prevent craniofacial birth defects and prevent and treat oral diseases.

My lab focuses on identifying and translating regenerative materials and technologies to reestablish dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) tissue health. We use both in vitro and in vivo pre-clinical animal models to gain further insight into the potential clinical safety and efficacy of the developed biomaterials and overall regenerative strategies.