Molecular, Discovery and Translational Surgical Oncology

Exploring molecular stress signaling pathways in health and disease 

We are exploring molecular stress signaling pathways in health and disease with a particular focus on cancer. Our aim is to translate basic molecular discoveries into novel, innovative therapies.

Research Focus 1 

The role of the UPR in pancreatic cancer tumor growth

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive types of malignancies with a devastating prognosis and increasing incidence. Despite recent advances, the only potentially curative therapeutic option is advanced surgery with chemotherapy, making it of paramount importance to identify therapeutic targets and develop novel treatment strategies. During cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis, tumor cells face an array of intrinsic and extrinsic ER stressors. Here, we are exploring the validity of the UPR as a putative therapeutic target.

Research Focus 2

The role of the UPR in pancreatic cancer metastasis

Early systemic dissemination and distant metastasis to the liver, lung, or peritoneal cavity is a major hallmark of pancreatic cancer. Since little is known about the importance of the UPR during metastasis, we are here exploring the role of the UPR during the key steps of the metastatic cascade in pancreatic cancer.

Research Focus 3

The role of the UPR in therapy resistance

Up to 80% of all patients suffering from pancreatic cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage where they are no longer eligible for primary surgical resection. In advanced stages, the current first- and second-line therapy relies on gemcitabine- and fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy. However, their benefit is often significantly hampered by the emergence of chemoresistance. Since chemotherapy represents an additional source of extrinsic cellular stress to which cancer cells adapt by employing the UPR, understanding the molecular mechanisms mediating chemo-resistance in pancreatic cancer to overcome chemoresistance is critical.