Investigators in the Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis make extensive use of mouse models to study the development and prevention of carcinogenesis. Animal models are used to examine host and environmental risk factors and to identify biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and assessment of therapeutic responses. Models in use or development include those for cancers of the prostate, mammary gland, liver, head and neck, skin and lymphoid system.

The Research Animal Support Facility-Smithville provides animal husbandry services, veterinary care and consultation, surgical and technical support, health and genetic quality assurance, consultation and an assortment of technical services to support departmental and institutional research. Well over 300 genetically unique mouse lines are bred and used in this facility and are shared with colleagues around the world.

Regulatory compliance and training and education in animal care and use are additional functions of the facility, as are provision of animal health quality assurance testing and breeding colony management.