Project description
The structural basis of human epidermal growth factor receptor signalling in cancer
Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) proteins are critical regulators of cell growth and have also been implicated in cancer progression. HER2 and HER3 form heterodimers that amplify tumour-promoting signals and have been linked to therapy resistance. Despite their importance, the molecular nature of the HER2-HER3 interaction within cell membranes remains elusive. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the HERSTRUCT project aims to generate the 3D structure of the full-length HER2-HER3 complex using cryo-electron tomography. Researchers will investigate additional partners as well as downstream signalling events, providing fundamental insight into the role of the HER2-HER3 complex in cancer progression. Ultimately, the goal is to design novel cancer therapies for patients with HER2-driven cancers.
Objective
The HERSTRUCT project seeks to uncover the structural and functional mechanisms of HER2 and HER3, two proteins that are pivotal in driving cancer progression, particularly in aggressive breast and lung cancers. HER2 is often overexpressed in these types of cancers, leading to unchecked cell proliferation, while HER3 collaborates with HER2 to intensify the signaling pathways that sustain tumor growth and survival. Despite extensive research, the precise nature of the HER2-HER3 interaction in cancer cells, especially within their native membrane environment, remains elusive and closely linked to cancer resistance to therapies.
Leveraging cutting-edge cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), the HERSTRUCT project aims to produce the first 3D structural view of the full-length HER2-HER3 complex in its natural membrane environment. This approach will provide unprecedented insights into how these two proteins function together at the molecular level. Functional assays will investigate how HER2 and HER3 trigger cancer-promoting signals, while mass spectrometry will identify additional molecules interacting with the complex, offering a complete view of their role in cancer progression and therapy resistance.
In collaboration with leading research institutes, HERSTRUCT will explore how these structural insights can be applied to develop cancer therapies specifically targeting HER2-HER3 interactions. This effort not only fills a key gap in cancer research but also has the potential to lead to more personalized and effective treatments, particularly for HER2-positive cancers, where drug resistance is a challenge.
The fellowship will provide me with cutting-edge expertise in cryo-ET and advanced data analysis, strengthening my skills and preparing me for a leadership role in cancer research. This project addresses a critical challenge in cancer biology and offers the potential to improve treatment outcomes for patients with HER2-driven cancers.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences biological sciences biochemistry biomolecules proteins
- natural sciences physical sciences optics microscopy electron microscopy
- medical and health sciences clinical medicine oncology
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
13125 Berlin
Germany
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