Oncogenes and Effector Targets
"We are very interested in identifying new molecular targets in KRAS-dependent tumors and discovering innovative therapeutic strategies for the treatment of these tumors."
DR. SILVESTRE VICENT CAMBRA RESEARCHER. ONCOGENES AND EFFECTOR TARGETS RESEARCH GROUP
The Oncogenes and Effector Targets Research Group at Cima focuses on identifying new molecular targets in tumors dependent on the KRAS oncogene and discovering innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at improving their treatment. KRAS is the most prevalently mutated oncogene in lung cancer and in tumors of the intestinal tract, such as pancreatic cancer, colon cancer or cholangiocarcinoma.
Our studies are based on a multimodal approach that includes functional genomics techniques, mouse genetics, in vitro and xenograft models, and analysis of human cancer samples and clinical parameters. In addition, we work with organoids (3D organotypic culture) of primary human and murine cells, as well as cell lines. This model allows us to carry out in vitro and in vivo studies of gene modulation, pharmacological treatments or cell co-cultures.
We also performed innovative computational analyses by integrating databases of lung and pancreatic cancer patients where KRAS is mutated to identify new critical elements in these tumors. In addition, we have characterized its functional and clinical role in close collaboration with professionals from the Clínica Universidad de Navarra with interest in lung and intestinal tract tumors.
The group is associated to CIBERonc (CB16/12/00443) and to the European Network for the Study of Cholangiocarcinoma (ENSCCA).
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Objectives of our research
Identification of novel molecular targets in KRAS-dependent tumors
Development of in vitro and in vivo studies of gene modulation, pharmacological treatments or cell co-cultures
Design of innovative therapeutic strategies for the treatment of these tumors.
NEW CARCINOGENIC MECHANISMS
Mir181ab1, a crucial microRNA in pancreatic and lung cancer
Our group has developed a novel work in pancreatic and lung cancer that integrates genetically modified mouse models, 3D cell culture and in vitro models, as well as clinical data from series of patients with both types of tumors.
This study confirms the involvement of this new mechanism, the miR181ab1 microRNA, in the initiation of both cancers.
In turn, by eliminating this microRNA in mice with these tumors we were able to generate a very potent antitumor effect.
Meet the research team
Scientific activity of the Research Group on
Oncogenes and effector targets
Latest scientific publications
- Epigenetic basis of oncogenic-Kras-mediated epithelial-cellular proliferation and plasticity Feb 7, 2022 | Magazine: Developmental Cell
- Intratumoral nanoplexed poly I:C BO-112 in combination with systemic anti-PD-1 for patients with anti-PD-1-refractory tumors Oct 14, 2020 | Magazine: Science Translational Medicine
- BL-8040, a CXCR4 antagonist, in combination with pembrolizumab and chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer: the COMBAT trial May 25, 2020 | Magazine: Nature Medicine
- CXCR1 and CXCR2 Chemokine Receptor Agonists Produced by Tumors Induce Neutrophil Extracellular Traps that Interfere with Immune Cytotoxicity Apr 6, 2020 | Magazine: Immunity