Research

 

Current focus of research:

  • Pharmacological studies on the mechanisms involved in angiogenesis and tumour growth in vitro and in vivo. Evaluation of new compounds or nanoparticles for their anti-angiogenic and anti-tumour activity.
  • Determination of the biological actions of the heparin-binding growth factor pleiotrophin (PTN). Effects on angiogenesis, proliferation, migration, tumour growth in vitro and in vivo, apoptosis and metastasis.
  • The role of PTN in bone cell biology.
  • Identification of important domains on PTN. Structure-function studies.
  • Establishment of PTN receptors, among which RPTPβ/ζ. Elucidation of the role of RPTPβ/ζ in angiogenesis and tumour growth.
  • Cross-talk of PTN and its receptors with other molecules and pathways, such as FGF-2, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide and VEGF (see ALTangioTARGET).

 

Funding bodies: