Professor, Ben May Department for Cancer Research
Bio
Dr. Macleod is a leading breast cancer researcher at the University of Chicago, whose research focuses on how mitophagy and mitochondrial stress responses drive tumor migration, invasion, and metastasis. Her team has revealed key roles for autophagy, BNIP3, and most recently NIX (BNIP3L) in shaping metastatic progression, with current efforts aimed at targeting NIX to prevent cancer spread. She also serves as Associate Director of Basic Science at the University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, directs the NCI-funded Multi-disciplinary Training Program in Cancer Research, and is a past president of the Cancer Biology Training Consortium (CABTRAC).
Breast cancer metastasis is the leading cause of breast cancer mortality, and emerging evidence points to mitochondrial dysfunction—driven by the protein NIX—as a key contributor. This study investigates how elevated NIX promotes the earliest steps of metastasis, with the dual goal of establishing NIX as a biomarker for identifying high-risk, early-stage disease and validating it as a therapeutic target to prevent cancer spread. By defining the role of NIX in metastatic progression, Dr. Macleod’s work offers a unique and innovative path toward earlier detection and new strategies to stop metastasis before it begins.
Kay F. Macleod, PhD
University of Chicago
Current
Senior Investigator
Dezheng Huo, PhD
Using Artificial Intelligence to Integrate Imaging and Genetic Markers for Personalized Breast Cancer Risk Prediction
Current
Senior Investigator
Seema Khan, MD
Optimizing Family Planning for Young Women at High Risk of Breast Cancer
Current
Senior Investigator
Amanda L. Marzo, PhD
Reversing Resistance to Anti-Pd1 Therapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Why your gift matters
Your gift helps researchers test bold ideas, generate critical data, and take the first steps toward the next major advancement in breast cancer treatment and care.Together, we can accelerate discoveries that save lives.
