Extracellular matrix and matrix-processing cells in the pathophysiology of pancreatic cancer (dr hab. Kachamakova-Trojanowska & dr Jakubowska)

This doctoral project in Biomedical Sciences aims to investigate how shear stress driven by dynamic mechanical forces changes phenotypically pancreatic stromal cells and promotes the development of desmoplasia in solid pancreatic tumors. In the experimental settings, the stiffness of the matrix will be mimicked by high/low stiffness hydrogel-like substrates, to modify stromal cell activation and extracellular matrix turnover. Further, using our model system, we will investigate how the presence of cancer cells affects the phenotype transition of the matrix-processing cells. Next, we will analyze the mechanical stress-dependent potential of cancer cells for metastasis formation, and survival of the anti-cancer therapy. Finally, in vivo experiments will test how mechanical stress affects tumor growth in an animal host. This will deliver data on functional and topological characteristics of PC that affect the fate of cancer cells before the cell’s implantation in a metastasis site.

More information:
Szkoła Doktorska Nauk Ścisłych i Przyrodniczych - Uniwersytet Jagielloński