The collagen-rich matrix as a driver of breast cancer progression and resistance to therapy

细胞外基质或“基质”包围着所有细胞，在控制细胞行为方面非常重要。在癌症中，基质发生了戏剧性的变化，使癌症更具侵袭性。我们最近开发了一种新的方法来研究乳腺癌中的基质，并分析了不同阶段(早/中/晚)的基质。我们已经发现了与更具侵袭性的肿瘤相关的令人兴奋的新的矩阵靶点。该项目将验证它们作为乳腺癌治疗靶点的潜力。

The extracellular matrix or 'matrix' surrounds all cells and is very important in controlling cell behaviour. In cancer, the matrix is dramatically altered, making cancer more aggressive. We recently developed a new way to study the matrix in breast cancer, and have analysed the matrix at different stages (Early/Mid/Late). We have uncovered exciting new matrix targets associated with more aggressive tumours. This project will validate their potential as therapeutic targets in breast cancer.