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Saliva Research May Yield Breast Cancer Dividends
Dental researcher develops test for cell growth factor in saliva
Mammograms and other clinical breast exams that screen for cancers often are dreaded by women due to the pain and inconvenience they cause. But through the research of Charles Streckfus, D.D.S., in the future, a more convenient and pain-free screening could be available – a saliva sample. That’s the good news.
Charles Streckfus, D.D.S., expects his oral research to
benefit patients. Photo by Erika E. Durham
Streckfus has joined the faculty of The University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston as a professor of diagnostic sciences. That’s the better news.
Recruited by Dental Branch Dean Catherine M. Flaitz, D.D.S., and the UTDB research team, Streckfus has varied research interests, including salivary function, gerontology, bone disorders and oral health disparities. He is most noted for his research into the diagnosis of breast cancer through saliva.
Streckfus has been instrumental in developing tests that detect the amount of HER2 in a saliva sample. HER2 is a growth factor found on the surface of regularly growing cells. The over-expression of the factor causes uncontrolled cell growth that often results in more aggressive breast cancer cells. His research and clinical trials have yielded two patents.
“One major advantage of being at UTDB is the proximity of other research-oriented institutions,” he said. “For example, the equipment required to perform proteomic research varies in its analyses, is extremely expensive and far exceeds the financial resources for any single institution. However, being at UTDB affords the researcher the ability to readily access this equipment located in nearby institutions. Additionally, at UTDB you have access to some of the country’s brightest researchers, who can provide technical support and advice on a myriad of topics.”
A previous presentation at the UT M. D. Anderson Cancer Center led to collaborative relationships with researchers there. Now, Streckfus looks forward to collaborating with the faculty at the Dental Branch and mentoring students.
“I believe I can enhance research activity at UTDB by sharing information, ideas and technologies that I have accrued through my research experiences at Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, the National Institute of Craniofacial Research and the University of Mississippi Medical Center,” he said. “I certainly look forward to being a part of an already dynamic team of researchers, educators and clinicians.”
By Erika E. Durham, Public Affairs