RESEARCH
Beate Heissig`s laboratory focuses on inflammation, cancer, and stem cell regulation. We use in vivo mouse models and human genetics, tissue culture, and molecular biology to model inflammatory diseases, cancer, and tissue regeneration.
Dr. Heissig`s group established the concept of the proteolytic niche or zone that is important for stem cell maintenance, ischemic tissue regeneration, and cancer growth. We have shown that proteases are drivers of severe inflammation that help to establish cytokine storm syndrome. Our mission is to identify novel therapeutic targets to control inflammation, cancer, and tissue regeneration.
Current Projects
1. Identification of factors that indicate the aggravation of COVID-19
【Key Words】genetic analysis, SARS-CoV-2, proteases, cytokines, extracellular matrix, blood vessel, coagulation, fibrinolysis, inflammation
2. Identification of blood vessel-associated signaling molecules that take part in colon cancer and multiple myeloma progression
【Key Words】 cellular signaling, proteases, colorectal cancer, colitis-associated cancer, multiple myeloma
Endothelial and inflammatory cells provide signals necessary for malignant epithelial (colorectal cancer and B cells (multiple myeloma) (Munakata, Gastroenterology, 205, Salama, Blood Advances 2020). We are currently examining blood vessel-associated molecules and their receptors in this process using murine disease models and molecular in vitro techniques.
3. Studies on the role of the niche (endothelial and inflammatory cell)-mediated signals for hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cell-mediated tissue repair
【Key Words】hematopoiesis, hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, growth factor signaling, proteases,
Using murine models including xenograft models using human hematopoietic stem cells, we study mechanisms that are required for blood replenishment after myelosuppression.
Research tools
- Gene deficient mice (knockout mice)
- Gene targeting techniques using viruses (adeno-, lenti-, retro-)
- Others: Flow cytometry, mouse manipulation, basis molecular methods
- Stem cell biology: human and murine hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells
- Cancer: murine models of myeloma, leukemia, colon cancer
- Inflammation: murine models of inflammatory bowel disease, macrophage activation syndrome, and graft versus host disease
- Angiogenesis: murine models of hind limb ischemia and atherosclerosis
Characteristics of the Lab
Our goal is to provide an international platform for vivid scientific exchange that performs cutting-edge, but highly competitive research with the potential to be translated into the clinic.
Scientists from basic fields like biology, pharmacology, or chemistry, and physicians from medical departments have joined our laboratory (hematology, surgery, internal medicine, gastroenterology).
We welcome lab members from all around the world.
2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8431 JAPAN
Contact us: dynamics@juntendo.ac.jp
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