In depth investigation of the molecular signaling mechanisms and cellular function of midkine, neuropilin-2 and sFLT1 in conjunctival and uveal melanoma (C03)

• Subject Area: Ophthalmology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 501530074

To develop effective therapies for metastatic ocular melanoma, it is of utmost importance to understand the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms behind metastasis in ocular melanoma. In our previous studies, we were able to identify that lymphangiogenesis is a decisive risk factor for metastatic spread in ocular melanoma. In the present project, the characterization of cellular functions and molecular signaling pathways involving the key drivers of ocular tumor metastasis, Midkine, NRP2 and sFLT1, are studied with the long-term goal to translate our findings into clinically used (neo)adjuvant, antilymphatic therapeutic strategies for ocular melanoma patients.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1607: Towards immunomodulatory and anti(lymph)angiogenic therapies for age-related blinding eye diseases
• Applicant Institution: Universität zu Köln
• Project Heads: Dr. Jacobus J. Bosch; Professor Dr. Ludwig M. Heindl