Directory

Sharon Cantor

Associate Professor | PhD

My laboratory focuses on understanding how tumor suppressor proteins function to maintain genomic integrity and suppress cancer. In particular, we focus on the hereditary breast and ovarian cancer genes, BRCA1, BRCA2 and the BRCA1-associated helicase, FANCJ (BACH1/ BRIP1). Bi-allelic loss of these genes also causes Fanconi anemia (FA), a rare chromosomal instability and cancer syndrome. Our work on FANCJ revealed that DNA repair defects underlie both hereditary breast cancer and FA. Currently, we are employing biochemical and whole-genome screening technologies, to uncover mechanisms regulating DNA repair choice and how cancer cells evade toxic chemotherapies.

The Latest

News & Events

2025 Research Updates

Research is the answer to one day making FA a treatable, manageable disease. Here, you'll discover the most recent strides in FA research and activities funded by FCF. Every quarter, we'll bring you updates on newly funded grants, ongoing projects, and significant milestones.

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Honoring Dr. John E. Wagner for a Lifetime of Impact

At the 2025 Fanconi Cancer Foundation Scientific Symposium in Minneapolis, the Foundation presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. John E. Wagner, MD, in recognition of his decades of groundbreaking work and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of people with Fanconi anemia (FA).

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Global Community, Shared Discovery: 2025 Symposium and Adult Retreat Bring FA Collaboration to Life

Nearly 300 members of the global Fanconi anemia community gathered in Minneapolis for the 2025 Scientific Symposium and Retreat for Adults with FA, three days that blended science, lived experience, and hope.

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