Center for Cancer Epigenetics

The Center for Cancer Epigenetics (CCE) brings together faculty members focused on epigenetics, the study of heritable and acquired changes that affect gene expression and cellular differentiation without DNA sequence alteration. The CCE has two co-directors, Xiaodong Cheng, Ph.D. and Mark Bedford, Ph.D. CCE members meet to discuss their current research in an informal setting at regular intervals and at an annual retreat.  

• What is Epigenetics?
• CCE Meeting Schedule

Epigenetic changes are now thought to be just as important as gene mutations in cancer development. The ultimate goal of the center is to define the full spectrum of epigenetic changes that occur in cancers, to discover the molecular causes of these changes, and to translate that newly gained knowledge into the clinic in the form of novel, epigenetic-based therapies. Members of the center include faculty from several basic research and clinical departments at MD Anderson, including our Smithville campus, as well as Baylor College of Medicine. Information and ideas are exchanged through weekly seminars and a monthly Distinguished Lecturer Series. For more information about our research programs, use the link "Faculty and Staff" here, or on the left side of this page, to see a list of CCE members linked to each member's individual research interests.