Characterisation of the role of integrins in cancer: As potential biomarkers and targets for therapy

Through our own work , and through research conducted in collaboration with others two genes, and integrin alpha 6 and integrin alpha 2 have been identified as significantly associated with the risk of developing prostate cancer. Two genetic alterations within this gene are associated with increased prostate cancer risk. There is also evidence provided by other researchers which supports a role for these genes in tumour development and tumour spread. This project aims to examine the genetic alterations in these genes associated with disease and how they may influence behaviour of tumours. We will examine why this may result in differences in the development of prostate tumours and their propensity to spread to other parts of the body, most frequently to the bone. The outcomes of this research may have direct application to the development of novel biomarkers for prostate cancer detection and to the discovery of new therapeutic targets.

In this project we use gene expression studies, PCR, mutation detection and cell culture.

Research Groups

Related Diseases

Staff

Senior Members

  • Professor Simon Foote

Members

  • Associate Professor Joanne Dickinson (Member)

Team Members

  • Dr Russell Thomson (Senior Research Fellow)
  • James Marthick (Senior Technical Officer)