Proteomics of Stem Cells and Cancer
- Functional and Structural Genomics
Prof. Dr. Jeroen Krijgsveld
Group leader
The proteome consists of thousands of proteins that collectively regulate cellular processes in health and disease. We investigate how proteome composition is dynamically regulated to understand cancer development and drug treatment - from patient tissues down to single cells.
Our Research
Proteins are often referred to as the workhorses of the cell, to indicate that they carry out the biochemical processes that give cells their identity and that endow them with specialized functions. Protein expression in every cell is tightly regulated, however this can become disbalanced by environmental factors or genetic mutations, leading to disease, including cancer. In our research we aim to gain insight into proteome regulation to understand the cellular processes that drive cancer development, and that regulate response to drug treatment.
Our research uses mass spectrometry as a powerful technology for detailed proteome characterisation to gain insight into cancer regulatory pathways in cells and tissues. In combination with biochemical and computational methods, we are developing dedicated approaches to understand the regulatory layers in the proteome, with a particular focus on secreted proteins, chromatin- and RNA-associated proteins. In addition, we have developed methods to specifically analyse protein synthesis and degradation to investigate the wiring of signalling networks and cellular response to treatment. We also have a strong focus on miniaturisation and automation to make proteomics a more sensitive and robust technology for both clinical and low-input applications, including single cells.