Research in our laboratory is focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of oral carcinogenesis and oral cancer chemoprevention. We are developing a number of preclinical models that will enable us to fully explore the underlying mechanisms of oral cancer inhibition by dietary phytochemicals and other immunomodulatory compounds. Of particular interest to our research are the bioactive phytochemicals that are found in black raspberries. Our long term goal is to identify discrete significant mediators of oral carcinogenesis that can be exploited in preventive and/or therapeutic strategies to reduce the risk of oral cancer development.