Christopher Young
Assistant Professor
The University of MD Anderson Cancer Center
Department of Neurosurgery
The Endovascular Surgical Neuro-Oncology laboratory at MD Anderson Cancer Center performs basic science and translational research with the goal of rapid clinical translation for brain tumor tumor therapeutics. Using experimental models of brain tumors, our lab is investigating novel therapeutic treatment for brain tumors which can be delivered by a minimally invasive technique, specifically endovascular selective intra-arterial infusions. In particular, we are interested in the delivery of oncolytic virus which have been packaged in human mesenchymal stems cell vehicles and strategies to delivered these cells directly into the brain across the blood brain barrier in the brain tumor and surrounding tissue (in collaboration with Dr Frederick Lang). We also have an interest in genetically modified natural killer cells which are able to overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and we will be testing the feasibility of direct intra-arterial delivery which may be superior to alternative methods (in collaboration with Dr Katy Rezvani). To facilitate successful intra-arterial therapeutic delivery, we are investigating novel techniques of blood brain barrier disruption such as low intensity focused ultrasound. Research opportunities within the lab will center around experimental brain tumor models and endovascular intra-arterial delivery techniques, with exposure to experimental surgery, immunohistochemistry, molecular biology, immunology and confocal microscopy. There is also significant opportunity for exposure to our clinical endovascular practice and participation in our ongoing Phase I/II clinical trial using intraarterial mesenchymal stem cells as a vector for oncolytic virus delivery for treatment of recurrent GBM.
Education & Training
M.D. - University of Cape Town - 2005
Ph.D. - University of Oxford - 2011