Molecular targets in health and disease: focus on PI3-kinases

MOLECULAR TARGETS IN HEALTH AND CANCER, a focus in PIP3 mediator. We study the molecular mechanisms that control physiological cell behavior and cancer, in particular the function of the PIP3 mediator, a molecule necessary for cell survival, division and migration. The aim is to define new therapeutic avenues for lung squamous cell cancer. 1) ACTION OF PI3-KINASE BETA ON STEM CELLS. We study how this enzyme that generates PIP3 in the nucleus regulates stem (and cancer stem) cell homeostasis. 2) REGULATION OF PTEN PHOSPHATASE. PTEN phosphatase reduces PIP3 levels and is frequently mutated in cancer. Is the enhancement of its activity a therapeutic alternative? We are studying first PTEN regulation in normal cells. 3) ACTIONS OF PIP3 IN THE TUMOR MICROENVIRONMENT. Interference with PIP3 levels is more lethal in solid tumors than in cultured cells. Our studies are oriented to define PIP3 interaction with the tumor microenvironment (hypoxia ad oxidative stress).