Research in our laboratory is focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of oral carcinogenesis and oral cancer chemoprevention. We are developing a number of preclinical models that will enable us to fully explore the underlying mechanisms of oral cancer progression and metastasis, as well as the effects of immunomodulatory compounds on oral cancer outcomes. Our long term goal is to identify discrete significant mediators of oral carcinogenesis that can be exploited in preventive and/or therapeutic strategies to reduce the risk of oral cancer development.