Cell Surface Receptor Hubs – A Novel Hallmark in Cytokine Signaling and Cancer Biology

The proposed project aims to provide a novel avenue to eradicate leukemic/cancer stem cells (LSCs/CSCs). I hypothesize that tetraspanins build the basis for a cell surface receptor hub (CSRH) consisting of signalling molecules which can cross-activate each other. A single cytokine stimulation of one receptor within a specific CSRH will lead to the additional activation of other signalling cascades within the same CSRH. Oncogenic transformation might lead to a re-organization of CSRHs to fulfil the demands of a cancer cell. Unique CSRHs upon transformation represent novel therapeutic targets.

ÖAW-Disruptive Innovation – Early Career Seed Money

Zentrum für Biologische Wissenschaften