ZNF768 PROTEIN HOMEOSTASIS: at the interface of controlled and uncontrolled growth

A major cause of cancer is the loss of balance between processes that promote growth and tissue repair, and signals that inhibit overgrowth. The ultimate outcome is a state where the cell/organ cannot regulate growth processes, resulting in excessive, uncontrolled growth. Our collaborators have identified a new protein that appears to play an important role in maintaining a healthy balance between these processes. This protein (ZNF768) maintains a steady growth program and is rapidly lost from the cells when they are required to arrest. Interestingly ZNF768 is present at high levels in many cancers, very likely contributing to excessive growth. In this proposal, we are speculating that the cellular mechanisms maintaining proper amounts of this protein are lost, resulting in excessive growth. We have outlined a set of experiments that will test this idea and determine the mechanism used to maintain proper protein levels. The experiments here will lead to significant insight into the functioning of this protein and its role in cancer development.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sabine Elowe

Student:

Partner:

Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Université Laval

Program: