Cell plasticity and heterogeneity in physiology and disease (DSB.AD006.347)
Thematic area
Project area
Biologia Molecolare/Cellulare (DSB.AD006)Structure responsible for the research project
Institute of genetics and biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso" (IGB)
Project manager
GABRIELLA MINCHIOTTI
Phone number: +390816132357
Email: gabriella.minchiotti@igb.cnr.it
Abstract
The ability of cells to adopt different identities along a phenotypic spectrum in a reversible manner is a phenomenon known as cellular plasticity. Although cell plasticity is essential for the development of multicellular organisms, it has been observed in stress/pathological conditions and serves as a mechanism of tissue adaptation/regeneration, but it can also predispose tissues to cancer. Most studies have focused on transcriptional regulatory programs of cell plasticity; whereas, the non-cell-autonomous control of this process has been poorly investigated so far. We will study the impact of extracellular factors/signals, including growth factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) composition on cell plasticity in physiological and pathological conditions. To this end, we will use embryonic and adult stem cells as model systems combining 2D and 3D cultures, including the recently described embryonic organoids gastruloids, which mimic early development of mouse embryos. Our objective is to have a better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing cell plasticity, with the ultimate goal of defining genetic and/or pharmacological strategies to regulate plasticity
Start date of activity
24/11/2021
Keywords
extracellular matrix, pharmacological strategies, embryonic organoids
Last update: 20/04/2024