David Ashley

Dr. Ashley’s primary research focus is laboratory based, investigating the role of immunotherapy as a novel approach to the treatment of tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). Since beginning his appointment at the faculty level at Duke in August of 1995 his activities have centered on two main areas of investigation. The first involves both in vivo and in vitro studies of the use of molecular therapeutics to target a CNS tumor associated antigen. The second area of interest comprises a detailed analysis of the role of TGF beta, a protein messenger produced by tumors of the CNS, both in the pathogenesis of disease and as a possible target for immunotherapy. In addition to his laboratory role Dr. Ashley is involved in the design and application of a variety of clinical research protocols in the treatment of children with malignant brain tumors.