OUR RESEARCH
RESEARCH FOCUS
Cancer Cell Biology, Cancer Metastasis, Cancer Drug Discovery, Phytomedicine, Drug Combination Therapies in 2D and 3D tumour models
RESEARCH OVERVIEW
Cancer is a very complex disease and comprises a broad group of cancer subtypes that are characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of malignant tumours that tend to metastasize. The diverse and multifaceted causes of cancer are only partially understood, which is why cancer research is so important. Our innovative research could give more insight into how different tumours behave and would make it possible for us to turn our discoveries into more effective cancer treatment strategies.
To date, the most effective approach in the treatment of cancer is surgery combined with chemo- and radiotherapy; however, this depends mainly on the stage of disease, as well as patient and tumour characteristics. Chemotherapeutic drugs are characteristically cytotoxic and often kill rapidly dividing cancerous and healthy cells. Notably, the application of chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer has not improved the overall survival rate significantly over the past few decades, as some of these treatments are associated with the development of drug resistance or clinical relapse – thus limiting its application and effectiveness.
The application of phytomedicine in the realm of health and medicine holds much promise. Phytomedicine is a field in pharmacology that makes use of plant-based bioactive compounds to prevent, treat or even cure various ailments. The therapeutic potential of phytochemicals extends across various health conditions, ranging from cardiovascular disease or neurodegenerative disorders to cancer.
Our research is centered on exploring new approaches to cancer therapy, by analyzing the effects of potential drug therapies in both 2D and 3D-tumour environments and discovering improved treatments that impede cancer progression. Our vision is that discoveries or innovations that arise from our research endeavors could yield potential lead compounds for anti-cancer drug development, in addition to providing a persuasive rationale to design clinical trials in patients with a poor response to chemotherapy.
