The research of Robert B. Jenkins, M.D., Ph.D., is focused on cancer genetics, particularly elucidation of the genetic events important for cancer initiation and progression. His primary interest is in the genetics of gliomas, where both his basic genetic studies and clinical translation activities have had a major impact on neuro-oncology.
Dr. Jenkins' lab has worked in several areas of neuro-oncology. For example, the lab developed carrier peptides to deliver proteins and small molecules across the blood-brain barrier, technology which has been licensed by several drug companies and is showing evidence of success for the treatment of neurological disorders.
The lab was also involved in the development of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved dual-probe fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test that is used to stratify patients for the treatment with HER2-targeted therapies.
Dr. Jenkins' team has developed an expression profiling test that predicts which men with prostate cancer are likely to develop clinical progression. This test is nearing submission for FDA approval.
Dr. Jenkins has also been involved in the development of several other genetic tests, including an FDA-approved urine screening test for bladder cancer (for which he holds the patent) as well as multiple FISH and array comparative genomic hybridization tests.