AT A GLANCE

• Organoids — patient-derived models
• Mouse Genetics — conditional CD44 models
• Phase I/Ib — clinical translation

OUR MISSION

Our research aims to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive tumour progression, therapy resistance and metastasis. We investigate how tumour cells adapt to changing environments and therapies, regain stem-cell properties and communicate with their surrounding microenvironment.

A major focus is the dynamic interplay between cancer cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells and the extracellular matrix, and how these interactions shape tumour growth and the formation of metastatic niches. At the molecular level, we investigate how cell-surface receptors, including adhesion receptors such as CD44, receptor tyrosine kinases such as MET and EGFR, and G protein-coupled receptors such as CXCR4, integrate signals from the tumour microenvironment. We aim to understand how these signalling networks control cancer-cell plasticity, stromal activation, immune regulation and metastatic dissemination.

To bridge fundamental mechanisms with disease biology, we combine genetically engineered and patient-derived organoids, conditional mouse models, patient material and advanced imaging approaches. Ultimately, our goal is to identify vulnerabilities within tumour cells and their microenvironment that can be exploited therapeutically and translated into new strategies to prevent tumour progression and metastasis.
 

RESEARCH THEMES​

From Mechanism to Medicine

A CD44v6-derived peptide developed from our work has reached Phase I/Ib clinical evaluation.
Fundamental signalling biology translated into therapeutic strategies.

Our Approach

1. Engineered Cancer Organoids
2. Patient Samples/Patient-derived Organoids (PDOs)
3. Conditional Mouse Models
4. Therapeutic Validation

Join Our Lab

We welcome motivated Master's students, PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers.
[ Open Positions ]