Seminar

Using multidisciplinary approaches to understand the role of cytoskeletal dynamics in cancer

Victoria Sanz-Moreno, PhD

Rho GTPases are molecular switches that control the cytoskeleton. Deregulation of Rho GTPases can result in aberrant function and disease, including cancer. In our lab we are particularly interested in melanoma as it is a very aggressive cancer. Metastatic spreading of melanoma cells from one part of the body to another is one of the biggest problems in this disease. To metastasise, melanoma cells must move through tissues and cross tissue boundaries, which requires cell motility, remodeling of cell-cell contacts and interactions with the extracellular matrix. Rho GTPases control actomyosin contractility, adhesive forces and matrix degradation, all necessary for cells to migrate and disseminate efficiently. Our group is working on identifying molecular cues driven by Rho GTPases that will aid in melanoma progression and metastatic dissemination. To gain a global understanding on how Rho GTPases could control these processes, we use a combination of "OMICs", state of the art microscopy in 3D matrices, molecular biology, animal models and patient information. We think this global multidisciplinary approach will define the best therapeutic targets .