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Cell Biology of Cancer – Staffan Strömblad's research group

All tissue cells are surrounded by an extracellular matrix (ECM). Cell-matrix interactions control cell proliferation, survival, migration and differentiation, all key processes in cancer development and progression. We study the nature of cell-matrix interactions and how these interactions influence key cellular functions, including cell proliferation and migration.

Part of the:

Cell-Matrix Interactions and Signalling in Cancer

Microscopy image, mostly blue on black background
RhoA (RhoA-GTP) activity detected using a FRET biosensor in an HT1080 cell in 3D by lattice light sheet microscopy. This image was obtained by Jianjiang Hu at our 2018 visit to the Advanced imaging center at the HHMI, Janelia research campus. Red color demarcates the highest RhoA-GTP levels observed along membrane ruffles sticking up at the front edge of the cell. Image: Jianjiang Hu

Part of the ECM influence on cancer cells stems from the mechanical properties of the ECM. Stiffening of a tumour as a palpable lump is also often the first diagnostic measure of cancer; normal breast is soft, whereas breast cancer is stiffer. Increased stiffness is a physical hallmark of many solid cancers, including breast cancer, where the increased e