Ehab Sarsour, MSc, PhD
Associate Professor of Cellular and Molecular Biology

Research Interest: Aging and age associated diseases including cancer.

Dr. Sarsour research focus on aging and age-associated diseases, including cancer. He explores the molecular mechanisms that regulate the proliferative properties of both normal and cancer cells. His work has led to the proposal of two interconnected pathways that govern cellular longevity in normal cells. These include a redox-sensitive checkpoint that controls the transition from quiescence to proliferation, known as chronological lifespan, and telomeric attrition, which regulates the replicative lifespan or the "mitotic clock."  

His research has uncovered that the antioxidant enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase plays a crucial role in preserving the regenerative capacity of quiescent normal human fibroblasts. It does this by regulating mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and preserving mitochondrial morphology against age-related abnormalities. Dr. Sarsour's investigations also extend to understanding the molecular mechanisms associated with oxidative stress during cellular aging and its impact on cancer progression. His current and future research is aimed at elucidating how cellular redox status and reactive oxygen species influence cell biology within human tissue and their effects on the microenvironment of diseased tissue.

Dr. Sarsour’s current research program is focused on two critical areas. The first is the changes in lipid metabolism associated with age. He targets these alterations to enhance cellular renewal and regeneration, particularly in the context of wound healing. The second area is cancer drug development. In this regard, Dr. Sarsour collaborates with institutions such as the University of California Santa Cruz, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, and pharmaceutical company Loxagen Inc. His goal is to develop novel cancer therapies that target the cancer microenvironment. These therapies are intended to work in conjunction with standard treatments like radiation and chemotherapy, with the ultimate aim of improving patient outcomes.”