The Department of Experimental Pediatric Oncology (lead by Prof. Matthias Fischer) at the University Hospital of Cologne conducts research into genetic changes in pediatric and adult cancer (including SCLC) with the aim of developing new approaches for diagnostics and therapy. Our projects have a strong multidisciplinary focus and involve a wide range of national and international collaborations. Further information about the CRC:
https://www.sfb1399.de/
You will join the recently established junior research group focusing on cell death mechanisms involved in spontaneous tumor regression. Activation of telomere maintenance is a key event in malignant transformation and most frequently conferred by induction of the reverse transcriptase telomerase encoded by TERT. In previous studies, we demonstrated that spontaneous regression and maturation occur frequently in Tert-deficient tumors, however, the mechanisms underlying these phenomena have remained uncertain. In our current research focus, we will investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying spontaneous regression in SCLC, with a special focus on cell death mechanisms. Using genetically engineered mouse models and in-depth comparison of murine and human tumors, we will analyse these processes.
