Objective
Research objectives and content
Using a new approach to study apoptosis induced by the proto-oncogene c-Myc, we hope to prove that this process is under the control of non nuclear events. Our work should provide evidence that cytokines and the proto-oncogene Bcl-2 protect against these effects by modulating these non nuclear events. Focussed on the involvement of ICE-like proteases and their regulation during c-Myc induced apoptosis, _ll-free studies could provide numerous information concerning a pivotal role for these proteases in the cell death program . This study should precise the sequence of c-Myc induced cell death pathway. Our cell-free study could determine how Bcl-2 family and ICE/CED-3 family members interact.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
The interaction between c-Myc and Bcl-2 represent a novel type of oncogene cooperation of potential importance both in carcinogenesis and in the evolution of resistance in tumors. The availability of a cell-free system reproducing apoptotic events in vitro is a powerful tool to study biochemical events controlling programmed cell death. Unravelling of the molecular mechanisms involved in c-Myc induced proliferation and cell death pathways is important in the understanding of carninogenesis and in the development of their pharmacological control.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
This project is open to collaboration with Tom Cittenden'group (Apoptosis Tech. Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
WC2A 3PX London
United Kingdom