Sissy M. Jhiang PhD

Sissy Jhiang, PhD, is a member of the Molecular Biology and Cancer Genetics Program at the OSUCCC – James, where her research focuses on molecular biology, cellular biology, genetic-engineered animal models, small-animal imaging modalities and nanobiotechnology. In particular, she is exploring RET/PTC-mediated signaling pathways in thyroid tumorigenesis and investigating regulatory mechanisms of Na+/I- symporter (NIS) in thyroid and breast cancers. She also is evaluating NIS as an imaging-reporter gene and mechanobiology characterization in cancer metastasis.
One of her recent studies is the first to demonstrate that hNIS-mediated radioiodide uptake (RAIU) can be modulated by microRNAs (miRs) and that those miRs also may play a role in thyroid malignancy development or maintenance. These results indicate miRs may be emerging targets to halt thyroid cancer progression and enhance the efficacy of radioiodine therapy. Dr. Jhiang has co-authored many articles in well-respected publications, including The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Endocrine-Related Cancer, Thyroid and ACS Chemical Biology.