Project 171411
Pannexins as a novel growth regulator in gliomas
Pannexins as a novel growth regulator in gliomas
Project Information
| Study Type: | Other Mechanistic_Study |
| Therapeutic Area: | Cancer |
| Research Theme: | Biomedical |
| Disease Area: | gliomas |
| Data Type: | Canadian |
Institution & Funding
| Principal Investigator(s): | Naus, Christian C |
| Co-Investigator(s): | Sin, Wun C |
| Institution: | University of British Columbia |
| CIHR Institute: | Cancer Research |
| Program: | |
| Peer Review Committee: | Cancer Progression & Therapeutics |
| Competition Year: | 2008 |
| Term: | 5 yrs 0 mth |
Abstract Summary
Gap junctions are traditionally made up of connexins subunits that form a pore allowing communication to occur between two adjacent cells. Recently a new family of gap junction-like protein called pannexins has been identified. Like connexins, pannexins appear to reduce cell growth. Unlike connexins that preferentially form an intercellular pore, pannexins form large single channels (hemichannels) that are able to connect the interior of the cell directly to the outside environment. We will determine whether pannexins mediate their growth inhibitory function via hemichannel activity, or whether they utilize similar mechanisms as conventional connexins. Understanding how pannexins control cell growth could open up alternative avenues for diagnosis or treatment in cancer.
Research Characteristics
This project includes the following research characteristics:
Study Justification
"We will determine whether pannexins mediate their growth inhibitory function via hemichannel activity, or whether they utilize similar mechanisms as conventional connexins."
Novelty Statement
"Understanding how pannexins control cell growth could open up alternative avenues for diagnosis or treatment in cancer."
Methodology Innovation
investigating the role of pannexins as growth regulators in gliomas