The overarching goal of the Macias lab is to gain basic mechanistic insights into clinically relevant actionable molecular targets with the eventual goal of aiding to reduce prostate cancer-specific mortality.

Our group integrates human cancer genomic data, functional genomic loss of function screens and pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo mouse models in order to identify, prioritize and validate potential therapeutic targets. Recently, we conducted a functional genomic kinome screen in obese and calorie restricted mice that identified various orphan kinases that are essential for tumor growth in an obese and lean host environment. We are steadily adapting drug development discovery capabilities and lead compound optimization strategies for increased target engagement, efficacy and drug like properties via collaboration with medicinal chemists and structural biologists.  In parallel, we are conducting basic mechanistic studies to determine the mechanism of action, including live cell imaging phenotypic gain and loss of function genetic studies and various omic approaches.