FLOBAK LAB
Precision oncology guided by computational modelling and patient-derived tumouroids
The Research Group
Overview
The Flobak lab aims to develop next-generation diagnostics and therapies for cancer. We focus on targeted therapies, a newer class of drugs that impact cancer signalling rather than just killing fast-growing cells. These differ from traditional chemo by acting on regulators of growth, not growth itself. We believe rational drug combinations can truly personalise treatment for each patient. Our research follows two key paths: 1) computational simulation of drug effects, including combinations, and 2) lab testing on patient-derived tumour cells. This dual approach helps us better understand and improve therapy choices for individual patients.
"The real power lies in combining drugs smartly, not just using more of them."
"It’s not just about killing growing cells—it’s about disrupting cancer signalling that locks cells in constant growth."
"Targeted therapies have reshaped cancer care over the past 25 years, but we have not yet understood how to combine these drugs to push effects beyond what single drugs can do."
Main Research Areas
Computer simulations
Computer models and simulations replicate the behaviors of cancer cells using mathematical frameworks. By computationally predicting tumor responses to treatment, we gain a deeper understanding of cancer dynamics and can test many drug combinations in computer simulations, as well as pinpoint the mechanisms responsible for any observed treatment resistance and drug synergy.
