Adhesion and Metastasis

The Adhesion and Metastasis Group of the Cima Solid Tumor Program, integrated in the Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra, aims to understand the molecular level of the intricate genetic and epigenetic programs that confer metastatic and/or recurrent potential, in order to elucidate new vulnerabilities for therapeutic design.

To this end, we have developed syngeneic autologous models of metastatic dissemination by genomic editing with CRISPR/Cas9 in lung cancer and osteosarcoma.

We have also developed new syngeneic models of post-radiation local recurrence in breast cancer where we have identified molecular targets with potential clinical use. For their validation, we are using a multidisciplinary strategy that combines in vitro gene manipulation and gene editing, mouse genetic engineering, "omics" technologies, in vitro functional assays, as well as in vivo monitoring of metastases and recurrences with sophisticated imaging techniques (in vivo bioluminescence and fluorescence, microCT and microPET).

In collaboration with professionals from the Clínica Universidad de Navarra and pharmaceutical companies, we are testing new therapeutic compounds with potential use in these clinical scenarios, with the hope of contributing to an improvement in the life expectancy of patients.