The Department of Mathematics is hosting a 2013 National Research Experience for Undergraduates Program (NREUP), funded by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA), the National Science Foundation Division of Mathematical Sciences (NSF-DMS), and the National Security Agency (NSA).

Research Theme
Mathematical Models of Cancer Networks

Project Timeline
June 3rd - July 19th, 2013

Faculty Mentors

• Dr. Joseph Rusinko, Project Director
• Dr. Zachary Abernathy, Primary Research Mentor

Student Researchers

• Gabrielle Epelle
• Lynnique Johnson
• Olivia Manley
• Michelle McDuffie

Project Summary
Biologist Eric Werner (2011) suggests that instead of looking at localized models that focus on single cellular processes, researchers should explore cellular networks and their role in cancer development. Our student researchers will use differential equations to develop and analyze mathematical models based on the theory of cancer networks. Participants will work on one of the following projects:

1. Develop a network-based model of colon cancer, studying how insulin affects colon cancer network communications.
2. Catalog distinct types of cancer networks and determine which measurable data is most useful in characterizing tumor growth and distinguishing among cancer network types.

For more information about this program, please contact Dr. Joe Rusinko (rusinkoj@winthrop.edu) or Dr. Zach Abernathy (abernathyz@winthrop.edu).