“EGFR-like receptors as therapeutic targets”
Principal investigator: Joaquín Arribas López (in collaboration with Josep Baselga Torres group).
We would like to emphasize the analysis of the role of certain metalloproteases in growth factor activation that at the same time activate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Furthermore, we are investigating the effect of monoclonal antibodies against EGF receptor or directly against its kinase domain in preclinical models.
“Proteolysis at the cellular surface and extracellular matrix remodelling”
Principal investigator: Joaquín Arribas López.
One of the more challenging tasks in this field is defining the different susbstrates for a specific metalloprotease. The best approach to achieve this objective is by using proteomic techniques that allow comparison between genetically deficient cells for a specific metalloprotease and control cells. Recent implementation of the proteomic service in our program will facilitate us to complete this task.
“Biosynthesis and regulation of C-terminal fragments from the HER2 proto-oncogen”
Principal investigator: Joaquín Arribas López.
The mechanisms for the HER2 (CTFs) C-terminal fragments synthesis have been recently undercover. These data will allow us to investigate the following aims:
- CTFs characterization (subcellular localization, kinase activity, etc.).
- Generation of transgenic mice expressing CTFs.
- Comparative analysis of the CTFs overexpressing cells transcriptome vs. control cells transcriptome.