HSF1 is widely known for its role as the master regulator of the Heat Shock Response (HSR), which maintains protein homeostasis during times of proteotoxic stress. It functions as a transcription factor, by binding to and coordinating the expression of numerous genes, which can collectively be thought of as its “transcriptional program”. This program can vary depending on the particular cell and stress type. We have recently shown that HSF1 is co-opted by tumor cells to promote their own survival at the expense of their hosts. We are working to understand the function and significance of HSF1 in human malignancy and its possible prognostic and therapeutic value.

HSF1 Activation in Human Cancer