Research output per year
Research output per year
Cellular proliferation, differentiation and death are all processes playing an active role from embryogenesis to the function of the adult organism. These events are strictly regulated and highly dependent on a multitude of intra- and extracellular factors to proceed normally. The polyamines constitute a group of intracellular growth factors essential for a variety of cellular processes. Depletion of polyamines rapidly induces cell growth arrest, whereas too high levels may cause an induction of cell transformation or cell death. Thus, it is crucial for cells to maintain their polyamine concentrations within rather narrow limits. Polyamine antimetabolites are potential drugs against a large variety of diseases. DFMO, which inhibits the enzyme catalyzing the rate-limiting step in polyamine biosynthesis, is presently the most effective drug against African sleeping sickness. It is capable of curing the most severe cases, in which also the central nervous system is affected. Furthermore, agents interfering with polyamine biosynthesis or function are presently being tested as chemopreventive and antineoplastic tools.
The present project deals with two major aspects of polyamine research. One is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in the cellular control of polyamine homeostasis. The regulation occurs at many levels and involves unique mechanisms. The second part of the project deals with the polyamine biosynthetic pathway as a potential target for anti-malarial drugs.
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):
Research output: Contribution to journal › Review article › peer-review
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Research output: Contribution to journal › Review article › peer-review
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review