Bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins have been linked to increases in oncogene expression and tumor progression in a wide array of cancers. Previous research on BET proteins has demonstrated that BET inhibitors (BETi) and other drugs in combination can moderately reduce cancer cell proliferation in colorectal cancer. Limited treatments exist for colorectal cancer due to its malignant nature and existing treatments are often costly or ineffective. Our research centers around determining potential BETi in colorectal cancer through in-silico research and testing identified drug candidates in an in-vitro setting. While previous research has been conducted on BETi, few studies examine the effects of BETi in colorectal cancer. So far, we have created a list of one hundred possible BETi drugs. By utilizing a deep learning Cancer Drug Response (Deep CDR) prediction algorithm, we will further narrow down our list of potential drug candidates. We are also working on identifying additional targets in HCT116 cells that are related to the BET protein pathway to expand our research. In order to do this, we are analyzing gene expression datasets using R and ranking candidates related to the BET protein pathway. Once new targets have been identified, the drugs will be ordered/synthesized and tested on HCT116 colorectal cancer cells. They will be tested through MTT Assays, Western Blot and qPCR and the ones with the most BETi properties as well as the least harmful side effects will be selected. With the increase in BETi, we hope to increase cancer treatment for patients.

The <i>in-silico</i> and <i>in-vitro</i> characterization of epigenetic drugs (BET Pathway Targets) on a colorectal cancer cell line

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The in-silico and in-vitro characterization of epigenetic drugs (BET Pathway Targets) on a colorectal cancer cell line