The laboratory aims to understand the biological mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of malignant brain tumors , and to identify and characterize novel molecular targets for targeted therapies, including cell and gene therapy, against high grade gliomas.
ACTIVITIES
The aim of the laboratory is to understand the biological mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of malignant gliomas and to identify new molecular targets against brain tumors. Based on patient tumor material, the laboratory has developed appropriate animal models to study glioma development in vivo. Using these models we address the identity of cancer-initiating cells, tumour-host interaction, angiogenesis and tumour cell metabolism. We also apply cell micro-encapsulation technology for the delivery of therapeutic proteins in brain diseases.
The laboratory has key competences in basic cell and molecular biology, rodent models, neurosurgery on small animals, in vivo imaging: bioluminescence, fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cell encapsulation technology, histological techniques, flowcytometry, proteomics analysis and advanced genomic profiling.
The laboratory is active in the following specific research areas: