Overview

The Boone Lab studies the immune response associated with pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis to develop novel therapeutics targeting mechanisms that contribute to the pathophysiology of these diseases. Specifically, our research focuses on how neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) alter the tumor microenvironment, promote inflammation, and interact with other immune cells to contribute to immunosuppression. Our experimental studies and research interests span basic science, translational, and clinical research, utilizing a bench-to-bedside-and-back approach to advance our understanding of these diseases and improve patient outcomes. 

Since establishing the Boone Lab in 2018, Dr. Brian Boone has championed research accessibility through interdisciplinary collaborations, institutional partnerships, and initiatives that expand opportunities for scientific discovery. His commitment to advancing collaborative research has extended into his leadership roles as Chief of the Department of Surgery and Director of the Biospecimen Translational Research Analysis Core (BioTRAC). Through these efforts, Dr. Boone has worked to strengthen research infrastructure, facilitate access to high-quality biospecimens and translational research resources, and foster collaboration among clinicians, scientists, and multidisciplinary research teams. Together, these initiatives reflect the lab’s commitment to bridging scientific discovery and clinical application to advance innovative, patient-centered research.