Dr. Patrick Casey

Biography

Patrick John Casey is the James B. Duke Distinguished Professor of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology at the Duke Cancer Institute. His research focuses on transmembrane signaling mediated by guanine nucleotide-binding regulatory proteins (G proteins) and the signaling pathways involved in cell growth. Over the past decade, his laboratory has highlighted the importance of mutations in G proteins that lead to cell transformation. Major areas of research include the covalent modification of G proteins by isoprenoid lipids, termed protein prenylation, which plays a crucial role in membrane targeting and oncogenic transformation of class G proteins such as Ras. His work has identified key enzymes involved in these modifications, which are now targets for the development of anti-cancer therapeutics. Additionally, his program aims to identify the molecular targets of G12 proteins and their roles in cellular processes such as adhesion and migration, especially in the context of metastatic progression in breast and prostate cancer.

Research Interests

Experience