The control of vascular remodeling in cancer by micrornas

The remodeling of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels in tumours is critical for metastatic spread which is the most lethal aspect of cancer. We have extensive experience in studying key protein growth factors and cell surface receptors that drive these processes, but there are many signaling pathways involved that are yet to be characterized. MicroRNAs are a group of small regulatory RNA molecules that can coordinately modulate expression of multiple proteins in a signaling pathway; they are central players in gene regulation.

This project will identify microRNAs that regulate vascular remodeling in cancer. This, in turn, will lead to identification of novel signaling pathways required for tumour angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis (i.e. the growth of blood vessels and lymphatics in tumors). The project will involve molecular and cell biology, vascular biology, systems biology, pathology and bioinformatics. It will provide exciting opportunities for translational studies aimed at restricting the growth and spread of cancer.

The Achen laboratory is focused on characterising key molecular signalling events in the tumour microenvironment that facilitate the growth and spread of cancer. The ultimate aim is to therapeutically target these signalling events to block tumour progression.