All cancers have altered cellular metabolism to keep up with their energy and nutrient requirements as a result of their uncontrolled proliferation. Wilson I. Gonsalves, M.D., focuses his research on understanding the cellular metabolism of malignant plasma cells in diseases such as multiple myeloma by employing a variety of systems biology techniques in an integrated fashion.

Dr. Gonsalves is also interested in enhancing the supportive care of patients with plasma cell disorders by incorporating clinical interventions to improve symptoms and quality of life.

He also studies population-based outcomes in various plasma cell disorders to identify trends and disparities in survival and utilization of therapies.

Focus areas

• Plasma cell metabolism. Dr. Gonsalves is utilizing metabolomics-based approaches to understand the cellular metabolism of malignant plasma cells both in vitro and in vivo.
• Supportive care in plasma cell disorders. He is also conducting pilot trials that incorporate supportive care interventions to help alleviate particular symptoms associated with plasma cell disorders and their therapies.
• Population based outcomes in plasma cell disorders. Additionally, Dr. Gonsalves is using large population-based databases to study the outcomes and identify disparities among patients with various plasma cell disorders.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Gonsalves' overarching research goal is to improve the outcomes and quality of life among patients with plasma cell disorders. He seeks to do this by focusing on the disease biology of malignant plasma cells, improving supportive care available to patients and identifying disparities in health care delivery that could be improved.