Towia Libermann, PhD

Introducing Dr. Libermann, our Genomics and Proteomics Core Director at BIDMC, who brings with him groundbreaking SOMALogic technology capable of simultaneously detecting 7000 proteins across the whole dynamic range using aptamer technology. It's worth noting that this core is the exclusive provider of this platform in the Boston area.

Beyond his role in the core, Dr. Libermann's laboratory is at the forefront of research on a group of innovative Ets family transcription factors recently discovered. These Ets family members exhibit selective expression in various epithelial types, and their dysregulated expression is a hallmark of several carcinoma types. Dr. Libermann employs a multifaceted approach that combines gene knockout and over-expression techniques with cutting-edge genomic and proteomic strategies. This approach allows him to unravel the consequences of Ets protein dysregulation and pinpoint their transcriptional targets.

In addition, Dr. Libermann's laboratory investigates the intricate regulation of IL6 expression in prostate carcinogenesis and its potential role in steering androgen resistance and bone metastasis. Leveraging advanced technologies in proteomics, transcriptional profiling, and genotyping, the laboratory defines and compares protein and gene profiles and genomic DNA across kidney, ovarian, prostate, and breast cancer tissues. This comprehensive analysis correlates protein and gene profiles, mutations, and biological activities with disease, delving into molecular-level disease mechanisms and predicting clinical outcomes and therapy responses.

Further studies in Dr. Libermann's lab are devoted to understanding the mechanisms of action of anti-cancer drugs on prostate, renal, ovarian, and breast cancer cells. By employing transcriptional profiling and genotyping approaches, the research aims to pinpoint potential novel drug targets, validate existing ones, and identify genes involved in adverse drug responses or drug resistance.