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Doctor Overview
Dr. Haining Yang is a Researcher and Professor at University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. Dr. Yang’s research is focused on the pathogenesis of mesothelioma. She discovered that a protein called High Mobility Group Box 1 protein (HMGB1) kickstarts the growth of mesothelioma cancer cells once the individual is exposed to asbestos. As a result, Dr. Yang explored targeting these proteins as a therapy method for mesothelioma.
The National Cancer Institute, the V-Foundation and the Department of Defense fund Dr. Yang’s research, which has been recognized for its advancements in mesothelioma therapy and research. Dr. Yang has been awarded for her research and continues to use clinical trials to test its effectiveness in treating mesothelioma.
Doctor Fast Facts
Main Specialty: Cancer Research
Other Interests & Specialties: Pathogenesis of mesothelioma (early detection, prevention and therapy) and mechanisms of gene-environment interaction.
Certifications, Awards & Accolades: Member of the Cancer Biology Program at University of Hawaii Cancer Center, EU Marie Curie Scholarship by the European Commission Marie Curie Actions Program, Landon AACR Innovator Award for International Collaboration in Cancer Research
Education & Experience:
- Medical Degree from Shandong Medical University
- PhD from Shandong University
- Researcher and Professor at University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center
- Researcher and Professor at University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa
Publications
HMGB1 and its hyper-acetylated isoform are sensitive and specific serum biomarkers to detect asbestos exposure and to identify mesothelioma patients. Clinical Cancer Research. June 2016;22(12):3087-96. doi: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-15-1130
Aspirin delays mesothelioma growth by inhibiting HMGB1-mediated tumor progression. Cell Death & Disease. June 2015;6:e1786. doi: 10.1038/cddis.2015.153
Molecular pathways: targeting mechanisms of asbestos and erionite carcinogenesis in mesothelioma. Clinical Cancer Research. February 2012; 18:598-604. doi: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-11-2259
