Molecular Pharmacology

Director:   Aiming Yu, Ph.D.
Technical Director: Anthony Martinez

The Molecular Pharmacology Shared Resource (MPSR) provides a mechanism for high-quality collection, processing and analysis of clinical specimens from clinical trial patients for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics studies. Additionally, the MPSR conducts preclinical modeling studies on novel anticancer agents or therapeutic combinations, and implements molecular pharmacological research with clinical impact.

Users of this resource are generally principal investigators (PI) of clinical trials seeking to incorporate translational and/or pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies into their trial design, or generate exploratory or validational preclinical modeling for new agent development or concept proof-of-principle. The long-term objectives of this resource are to delineate pharmacologica actions of new therapeutics and to identify valid factors that are predictive of therapeutic outcomes.

A dedicated staff research associate conducts clinical specimen collection, processing and management for most UC Davis Cancer Center clinical trials, often requiring unique preparation techniques specific to individual clinical trial protocols. The shared resource administers and maintains a secure, independent specimen database. All processed specimens are logged for tracking purposes and either prepped for shipping to outside institutions or barcoded (de-identified) and stored in aliquots onsite. All specimens are retained for sole use of the clinical trial investigation team, as stipulated by the protocol and study PI. Clinical trials specimens are not made available to investigators not associated with the clinical trial, except at the discretion and consent of the study PI.

The MPSR provides various supports for the understanding of DM/PK/PD and molecular pharmacological mechanisms of new anticancer treatments ranging from new assay and method development, preclinical modeling, protocol development and study design, specimen collection and analysis, data analysis and interpretation.