"Analisi di nuove proteine quali cause di patologie umane". (DSB.AD006.124)

Thematic area

Biomedical sciences

Project area

Structure responsible for the research project

Institute of clinical physiology (IFC)

Project manager

MARIO CHIARIELLO
Phone number: 0577231274
Email: mario.chiariello@ifc.cnr.it

Abstract

The disease cancer refers to the process by which genetic mutations accumulate in normal cells such that they exhibit uncontrolled growth. Virtually every cell type in the body has the capacity to accumulate mutations and become a tumor. The process by which a normal cell becomes a tumor is referred to as carcinogenesis or tumorigenesis. If the tumor has the ability to spread (metastasize) from its site of origin (the primary), it is considered to be malignant.
ERK8 (MAPK15) is the last identified member of the MAP kinase family and its activity and expression are modulated by nutrient deprivation, DNA damaging agents, and human oncogenes. Despite the paucity of in-depth information about its biological functions, several studies have recently shed light on its physiological roles and ability to control cellular proliferation and transformation.

Goals

Study of the contribution of ERK8 and its downstream pathways to GCTs. The working hypothesis for this aim is that ERK8 has a specific role in the development of male GCTs.

Start date of activity

17/08/2011

Keywords

MAP kinases, ERK8, cancer

Last update: 07/06/2025