Salami Lab

Our lab is dedicated to improving the early detection, monitoring, and treatment of urologic cancers, with a primary focus on prostate and kidney cancer. These cancers are among the most common and often challenging to manage due to their complex biology, resistance to treatment, and wide differences in how patients respond to care.

In prostate cancer, our research aims to improve how the disease is diagnosed, monitored, and treated over time. We study how inherited (germline) genetic changes influence cancer development and spread. Using advanced technologies such as spatial transcriptomics, we examine different regions of tumors to better understand their behavior and interactions with the immune system.

Our goals include:

• Identifying aggressive cancers earlier to guide better treatment decisions;
• Improving non-invasive testing to reduce the burden on patients;
• Increasing confidence in active surveillance so patients can avoid unnecessary treatment while still receiving timely care; and
• Refining treatment strategies based on tumor biology and genetic risk.

In kidney cancer, we develop advanced patient-derived models to better understand tumor growth, diversity, and resistance to therapy. These models allow us to test new treatments in ways that are more personalized and clinically meaningful.

By studying tumors from patients with specific genetic mutations, we aim to uncover insights that can lead to more personalized and effective care for patients with prostate and kidney cancer.