Hema Adhikari, Ph.D.

Dr. Hema Adhikari
Assistant Professor

Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

Office: 2812 NB
Phone: 314-273-6748
Email: hema.adhikari@wustl.edu
 

Research

The laboratory of Hema Adhikari, PhD focuses on interrogating RAS oncoprotein signaling networks through the lens of interactomes in cancer, based on an innovative functional proteomics platform combining proximity labeling technology coupled to CRISPR/Cas9 screening. We employ a multifaceted approach by leveraging biochemistry, cell signaling, proteomics, genomics into a range of experimental systems including cell culture, three-dimensional organoids and genetically engineered mouse models. The overarching goal of our laboratory is to elucidate mechanistic underpinnings of reprogramming of oncoprotein signaling networks in space and time to transduce aberrant signaling and promote cancer initiation and tumorigenesis, as a discovery point to reveal new actionable targets that can counter therapeutic resistance.

Select Publications

Hema Adhikari, Walaa E. Kattan, Shivesh Kumar, Pei Zhou, John F. Hancock, & Christopher M. Counter (2021). “Oncogenic KRAS is dependent upon an EFR3A-PI4KA signaling axis for potent tumorigenic activity” Nat Commun. 2021 Sep 9;12(1):5248. doi: 10.1038/s41467-021-25523-5. (Abstract)

Hema Adhikari & Christopher M. Counter (2018). “Interrogating the protein interactomes of RAS isoforms identifies PIP5K1A as a KRAS-specific vulnerability” Nat Commun. 2018 Sep 7;9(1):3646. doi: 10.1038/s41467-018-05692-6. (Abstract)