Research overview
Mutations in the tumor suppressor genes TSC1 and TSC2 in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) and pulmonary Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) lead to aberrant activation of the PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway, which is also frequently dysregulated in other forms of cancer.
Our goal is to elucidate novel mechanisms and signaling pathways leading to mTOR-dependent tumor formation with the potential for therapeutic intervention. Our work focuses on the functions of the proteins involved in TSC/LAM pathogenesis with regards to cell division, cell survival, and cell death.
Our goal is to elucidate novel mechanisms and signaling pathways leading to mTOR-dependent tumor formation with the potential for therapeutic intervention. Our work focuses on the functions of the proteins involved in TSC/LAM pathogenesis with regards to cell division, cell survival, and cell death.
I envision that in 5 or 10 years we will find better treatment options for rare diseases, such as Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and pulmonary Lymphangioleiomyomatosis, and more common ones, such as cancer. We have a huge responsibility to achieve this goal, and we do so by valuing scientific excellence and integrity. During this process we have the opportunity to provide high standards of education and mentoring, and respect individual expertise, contribution, and career goals. For my lab, I expect each and every member to be an exceptional scientist, have an outstanding personality, and equally contribute to this team effort. - Astrinidis lab mission statement