TNF Ligands in Cancer Research

All the cells in the human body have receptors on their membranes that can induce certain actions in a cell. All of these receptors have different functions. Some stimulate the growth of a cell, some stimulate cell division, while others cause cell death.

Every receptor is activated by a different compound, also called a ligand. This project aims to develop ligands to influence certain receptors of cancer cells. Obviously, those receptors on cancer cells that cause cell death are of specific interest. These receptors are called Tumor Necrosis Factors or TNF receptors. However, to obtain a more detailed idea of cell reactions to ligands, other receptors have to be studied as well. The researchers in the project have already developed two TNF ligands of interest, which can form the basis for the development of new strategies for cancer therapies.

Fast facts
Full project title: TNF ligands in cancer
Start date: March 2006
End date: July 2012
Goal: Develop new strategies for cancer therapies through the development of TNF ligands
Principal investigator: Steven de Jong
Project size: 10 FTE's
Partners: Academic Medical Center (AMC) Amsterdam, Netherlands Cancer Institute, MSD, Pepscan Presto BV, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, VU Medical Center Amsterdam