Objectif In many tumors a desmoplastic reaction takes place during progression, which results in extensive production of collagen by stromal cells of the tumor, mainly fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Tumor desmoplasia determines in large part the patho-physiology of solid tumors and poses a major barrier to effective drug delivery, affecting the overall survival of cancer patients. Here, the applicant proposes to test the hypothesis that the increase in extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) activation often observed during tumor progression have additive effects on tumor desmoplasia. Therefore, targeting any of these parameters alone or in combination can reduce the desmoplastic response of the stromal cells. To explore this hypothesis, a combination of cutting-edge techniques will be employed. Specifically, a collagen ECM model, with pre-determined topography and tunable stiffness will be developed. Subsequently, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts will be cultured in the ECM models. Cells nano-mechanical behavior and their morphodynamic alterations will be investigated with Atomic Force Microscopy and light/fluorescence microscopy under the presence or absence of TGFβ or anti-TGFβ agents. Finally, the effects of matrix stiffness along with different TGFβ concentrations in the expression pattern of genes encoding ECM components will be investigated using real-time PCR. The research results will elucidate the mechanisms of the interplay between matrix stiffness and TGFβ production in modulating the ability of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts to form tumor desmoplasia. In the proposed project, the fellow will acquire scientific and complementary skills according to his personalized career development plan and through advanced training, international and inter-sectoral mobility will reach a position of professional maturity in research. Champ scientifique medical and health sciencesbasic medicinephysiologypathophysiologynatural sciencesphysical sciencesastronomyplanetary sciencesplanetary geologynatural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsmicroscopymedical and health sciencesclinical medicineoncologybreast cancermedical and health sciencesclinical medicineoncologypancreatic cancer Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.3. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Main Programme H2020-EU.1.3.2. - Nurturing excellence by means of cross-border and cross-sector mobility Thème(s) MSCA-IF-2014-EF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF-EF) Appel à propositions H2020-MSCA-IF-2014 Voir d’autres projets de cet appel Régime de financement MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF Coordinateur UNIVERSITY OF CYPRUS Contribution nette de l'UE € 163 648,80 Adresse AVENUE PANEPISTIMIOU 2109 AGLANTZI 1678 Nicosia Chypre Voir sur la carte Région Κύπρος Κύπρος Κύπρος Type d’activité Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Liens Contacter l’organisation Opens in new window Site web Opens in new window Participation aux programmes de R&I de l'UE Opens in new window Réseau de collaboration HORIZON Opens in new window Coût total € 163 648,80