Molecular Cell Biology (Prostate Cancer)
Distinct patterns of prostate cancer cell migration within various types of 3D matrix. Coloured lines represent individual cell tracks acquired using a high-throughput screening microscope (ImageXpressMicro, Molecular Devices) - click for larger version
Ectopic expression of Wnt-11 (red) reduces the expression level of the androgen receptor (AR, green) in prostate cancer cell nuclei.
The aim of the Molecular Cell Biology Section is to prevent the progression of Prostate Cancer; the most diagnosed and second most common cause of cancer-related death in men in the UK. This goal is being achieved through their multidisciplinary and collaborative research strategy.
The section is jointly led by Professor Jonathan Waxman and Dr Charlotte Bevan who have helped develop treatments that are now standard practice in cancer therapy.
The Molecular Cell Biology Section is linked through multiple collaborations to other groups in the Division of Cancer working on breast, ovarian and cervical cancer; and is working as a unit to translate both their own research and their collaborative research into new strategies for the improved treatment of patients with Prostate Cancer.
The section comprises of four key research groups:
Androgen Signalling Group
Dr Charlotte Bevan leads the Androgen Signalling Group and has made major advances in our understanding about the molecular mechanisms that underlie altered androgen receptor signalling during the development of hormone-resistant prostate cancer.
Wnt Signalling Group
The pioneering studies of Dr Robert Kypta who leads the Wnt Signalling Group have uncovered new concepts for Wnt protein function in prostate cancer cell growth and differentiation.
Metastasis Team
Dr Justin Sturge who leads the Metastasis Team has successfully developed clinically relevant models to help understand mechanisms that drive increased prostate cancer invasiveness and altered bone remodelling, which affects nearly 80% of advanced prostate cancer patients.
Tumour Microenvironment & Chemotherapy Group
The recent work of Dr Dmitry Pshezhetskiy who leads the Tumour Microenvironment & Chemotherapy Group has revealed a link between lipid signalling, tumour-associated inflammation and chemoresistance.
