Harrell Lab Research - Department of Pathology

Development of novel therapeutic approaches to treat metastatic cancers

Our group focuses on developing new approaches to treat advanced metastatic disease, with an emphasis on triple-negative and endocrine-refractory luminal breast cancers, as well as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. We are particularly interested in identifying proteogenomic features that predict or mediate drug resistance from chemotherapies, anti-estrogens, antibody-drug conjugates, or targeted therapies. To propose novel therapeutic strategies to overcome drug resistance, we develop diverse sets of patient-derived xenograft models and characterize them with whole-genome sequencing, transcriptional analyses (bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing), proteomics, and high throughput drug screens. Identified mechanisms of resistance are targeted with synergistic drug combinations, including liposomal formulations, as well as with the development of novel antibody-drug conjugates. Overall, we aim for this research to lead to new clinical trials performed at the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center to eliminate metastatic disease. We have received research funding from the National Cancer Institute, Susan G. Komen Foundation, METAvivor, the Jeffress Trust, VCU School of Medicine, the VCU Massey Cancer Center, and the Department of Defense.

May 30, 2019: Massey researchers first to develop comprehensive models of "seeds and soil" as a means to combat breast cancer metastasis

June 22, 2021: Komen Blog: Dr. Harrell is working to stop drug resistance and breast cancer metastasis

August 23, 2022: Massey scientists earn federal grant

May 1, 2024: Massey's BRIDGE postdoctoral fellowship presents for UPRCCCC

August 1, 2025: CMGM PhD Candidate bags Travel Grant and Outstanding Abstract Award at ENDO 2025

August 25, 2025: VIDEO: Overcoming Therapy Resistant ER Positive Breast Cancer With Lasofoxifene

May 29, 2026: Changemakers honored at VCU’s Excellence in Community Engagement Awards ceremony