Dr Birgit Leitinger
Regulation of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling
We are interested in the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the activation and signalling of two unique receptor tyrosine kinases that function as collagen receptors. The discoidin domain receptors DDR1 and DDR2 regulate fundamental cellular processes including cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration and have emerged as important players in embryo development and human disease. With regard to human health, the DDRs are involved in disease progression in several human cancers, in organ fibrosis, atherosclerosis and osteoarthritis. In order to understand how and why the DDRs are activated in pathological states, we are using a variety of molecular biology, biochemical and cell biological tools to analyse the molecular basis of DDR transmembrane signalling and signal regulation. Our research will also help to provide the knowledge base required for the design of anti-DDR drugs that may be used in the treatment of human diseases.
Clinical specialities her work is relevant to: oncology, rheumatology, cardiology, hepatology.
Further information:
http://www1.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/people/b.leitinger/
Contact details
Tel: +44(0)207594 1591
