Dr. Branco’s lab focuses on the role of microvasculature in response to physiological stress, namely in the context of cancer-derived signals and treatment-induced toxicity. Endothelial cells are organ-specific, and respond to stimuli in unique fashion. Some endothelial-specific responses have been shown to modify cancer progression and disease outcome. We want to understand how microvascular cell adaptations contribute to morbidity and mortality in cancer patients and survivors.

Our lab uses primary endothelial cells and in vivo models, state-of-the-art equipment and technology to assess physiological, pathological and metabolic parameters.