Research

We investigate proliferation, migration, and invasion by catalytically active receptor protein tyrosine kinases (RPTKs) and catalytically defective RPTKs and their underlying molecular mechanisms. Special attention is given to the induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) by the RPTKs and the role of MMPs in tumorigenesis, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. We also study the modulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the dermis during aging and inflammation. Target molecules that induce changes in the ECM were screened by transcriptome and bioinformatic analysis. Molecular mechanisms for the synthesis or degradation of ECM by the target molecules have been analyzed.

Outline of our research interests

A. Role of catalytically defective RPTKs in tumorigenesis and metastasis

Elucidation of the molecular mechanism of catalytically defective RPTKs in tumorigenesis and metastasis
Development of anti-cancer therapy with neutralizing antibodies against catalytically defective RPTKs
Analysis of the efficacy of anti-cancer reagents in mice using xenograft assays

B. Effect of skin-aging target genes on the modulation of ECM in fibroblasts and skin

Identification of skin aging target genes from transcriptome databases of skin tissues
Elucidation of the mechanism of synthesis and degradation of ECM by the skin aging target genes in fibroblasts
Development of anti-aging agents that regulate the skin aging target genes