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- Specificity and Complexity of Integrin Signaling
Certain integrins cooperate with Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) to promote cell survival, cell proliferation, and cell migration. Other integrins do not exert this effect, and some even oppose the action of RTKs. We are studying the signaling mechanisms underlying these integrin effects. - Integrin α6β4 Signal Transduction
The  6  4 integrin is characterized by a unique cytoplasmic domain and plays a key role in tumor invasion and angiogenesis. We are elucidating the mechanisms by which 6 4 cooperates with the EGF-R, ErbB2, and Met RTKs to regulate cell fate. - Integrin Signaling during Tumor Invasion and Angiogenesis
Specific integrin signals enable cancer cells to detach from neighboring cells, re-orientate their polarity during migration, and survive and proliferate in foreign microenvironments. Similar signals allow endothelial cells to invade newly formed tumors. We are using mouse genetics and biochemistry to study these integrin signals. - Merlin/NF-2 Contact Inhibition of Growth and Tumor Suppression
The tumor suppressor Merlin, which is inactivated in Schwannomas and malignant mesotheliomas, play a key role in contact-mediated inhibition of growth. We are using biochemistry and iRNA methods to identify key target-effectors of Merlin. - Mechanisms of Metastasis
We are using gene discovery methods to identify putative metastasis genes.
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