Qingyu S. Zhou, PhD

Contact Info

• 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
  MDC 30
  Tampa FL
• Academic Email: qzhou1@usf.edu
• Academic Phone: (813) 974-7081

Education

Interdisciplinary and Emerging Signature Programs

• Cancer Biology
• Other

Research Interests

• Dr. Zhou's primary areas of research focus on the experimental therapeutics of metastatic tumors and the mechanisms underlying acquired resistance to molecularly targeted cancer therapies.
• One of Dr. Zhou's current research programs is directed toward the development of innovative preclinical strategies to inform the optimal use of targeted therapeutic agents for the treatment of brain metastases. This work begins with the establishment of an in vivo brain metastasis model that preserves the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and recapitulates the native tumor microenvironment. Building on this foundation, the program involves comprehensive characterization of the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) properties of targeted therapeutic agents within this model.
• Subsequently, quantitative analyses are conducted to define the relationship between drug distribution in target tissues and tumor response. This is achieved through the assessment of PD biomarkers that reflect key signaling pathways in tumor cells and their microenvironment. Collectively, these efforts are aimed at developing a robust framework to guide the rational design of dosing regimens that achieve optimal tumor drug concentrations and maximize antineoplastic efficacy.
• In addition, Dr. Zhou's research extends to the mechanistic investigation of acquired resistance to targeted therapies in solid tumors. Utilizing in vivo drug-resistant tumor models, this work seeks to elucidate the sequence of biological events that drive resistance. The ultimate objective is to inform the rational design of combination therapeutic strategies with sustained and durable antitumor effects.

Memberships

• Member (American Society of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 2012 - Present)
• Member (American Association for Cancer Research, 2012 - Present)
• Member (American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, 2011 - Present)

Positions Held

• Research Assistant Professor, Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine (2009 - 2011)
• Associate Scientist, School of Pharmacy, Temple University (2007 - 2009)
• Post Doctoral Fellow, School of Pharmacy, Temple University (2004 - 2007)