Translating the molecular hallmarks of colorectal cancer to patient therapies: an interview with Owen Sansom

Owen Sansom, Deputy Director of the Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, began his research career investigating the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis. Over the course of his work he has moved progressively into a more translational arena, and the current focus of his lab is to understand the signalling pathways underlying colorectal and pancreatic cancers. The Sansom lab uses mouse models to pinpoint how mutations that commonly occur in these frequently deadly cancers co-operate to promote tumorigenesis in vivo. This work has provided many important insights into the molecular changes associated with intestinal and pancreatic neoplasia and has revealed new targets for drug development. Here, Owen tells the stories behind some of his most exciting breakthroughs, describes the experiences and mentors that shaped his research interests and style of running a lab, and discusses the challenges of recapitulating the complexity of cancer as well as translating preclinical evidence to patient therapies.