Developmental Biology and Pediatric Cancer Research
The Guyer Lab studies how disruptions in normal development contribute to pediatric adrenal tumors, particularly neuroblastoma. Led by Richard A. Guyer, MD, PhD, the laboratory seeks to understand how neural crest cells develop into adrenergic neurons and how errors in this process can give rise to childhood cancer.
By uncovering the developmental pathways that drive neuroblastoma, the lab aims to identify new therapeutic strategies and improve outcomes for children with cancer.
"Understanding how cells differentiate properly will help clarify the origins of pediatric cancers and help identify new therapies."
Research Overview
Research in the Guyer Lab combines developmental biology, stem cell science, and cancer biology to better understand the origins of pediatric adrenal tumors.
Current areas of focus include:
- Neural crest cell differentiation and adrenergic neuron development
- Developmental origins of neuroblastoma
- Zebrafish models of pediatric adrenal tumors
- Stem cell models of adrenergic neuron differentiation
- Preclinical testing of novel therapeutic strategies
Over the next several years, the laboratory aims to establish robust zebrafish and stem cell models that will help reveal how developmental pathways and adhesion molecules influence neuroblastoma biology and treatment response.
Join the Lab
The Guyer Lab is actively building its research program and is currently seeking postdoctoral fellows and research interns.
Located within the University of Iowa's collaborative research environment, the lab benefits from strong programs in developmental biology, neuroscience, and cancer research, as well as close connections to UI Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital and its pediatric oncology program.
Researchers interested in developmental biology, pediatric cancer, and translational science are encouraged to explore opportunities to join the lab or collaborate on future projects.
Open Positions
Now Hiring: Postdoctoral Research Scholar:
The Guyer Lab is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to contribute to studies of neural crest development, neuroblastoma biology, and novel therapeutic strategies for pediatric cancer.