On the occasion of Pink October, the Institute of Pharmacology and Structural Biology (IPBS) emphasizes its increased involvement in breast cancer research. This commitment is demonstrated through support for several projects and funding initiatives aimed at enhancing the capabilities of its scientific teams.
Among the notable advancements is the SPATICaM (SPATIal omics of Cancer Microenvironment) project, led by Prof. Catherine Muller-Staumont and Dr. Landry Blanc. Selected under the TREK call for projects – Breakthrough Technologies in Cancerology, and part of the Cancer Plan, this project also receives financial support from the Rotary Club. SPATICaM will equip the IPBS with an integrated spatial multi-omics platform, combining mass spectrometry imaging, automated laser microdissection, and single-cell proteomics.
Initially, the SPATICaM project will focus on studying the metabolic interactions between adipocytes and tumor cells in breast cancer, examining both the primary tumor and bone metastases. Other IPBS teams are also investigating bone metastases.
The teams of Drs. Frédéric Lagarrigue and Christel Vérolet are continuing their work on the mechanisms controlling the progression of these metastases. Their research specifically looks into the 'vicious cycle' between osteoclasts and cancer cells, as well as the role of integrins in the dialogue between tumor cells and the bone microenvironment. This project is supported by the French Medical Research Foundation (FRM) for a postdoctoral fellowship and the ARC Foundation for Cancer Research.
Furthermore, a new doctoral project, led by Dr. Priyanka Sharma, is enriching breast cancer research. This project aims to investigate the impact of citrullination on transcriptional dynamics and oncogenic progression in breast cancer, in order to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the development and evolution of the disease.
During this Pink October month, the IPBS reaffirms its commitment alongside the scientific community and its partners, particularly the University Cancer Institute of Toulouse – Oncopole (IUCT-Oncopole). The goal is to advance knowledge on breast cancer and contribute to research breakthroughs for the benefit of patients.
