Functional analysis of the lymphatic system in normal and diseased tissue

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Although the lymphatic vasculature plays important roles in the metastatic spread of malignant tumors, studies of the lymphatic system have been hindered by the lack of specific lymphatic markers and growth factors. The recently identified hyaluronan (HA) receptor LYVE-1 is largely restricted to lymphatic endothelial cells. Since HA is a key mediator of tumor cell migration, we wish to analyze the role of LYVE-1 in tumor progression and metastasis. To this end we will perform mouse xenotransplantation studies using MDA-MB-435 breast cancer cells transfected to overexpress soluble LYVE-1 proteins. Beside the knowledge of the structural components of the lymphatic vessels, we are also pursuing to establishing a genetic mouse model overexpressing hrGFP under the control of the LYVE-1 promoter. In addition to the characterization of a specific lymphatic vessel promoter, this mouse model will enable us to create tissue specific transgenic as well as (Cre-lox) knockout mice. These tools will without any doubt lead to further exciting and relevant research in the field of cancer metastasis.