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Report

Teaser, summary, work performed and final results

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - PDZnet (Unraveling Principles of PDZ-mediated Cell Signaling)

Teaser

Summary

PDZ domains are abundant protein and lipid recognizing modules that function as central organizers and regulators of dynamic cell signaling processes. In conjunction with cell membrane proteins, proteins comprising PDZ domains facilitate transmission of extracellular information into physiological output. PDZnet is an ambitious PhD training network that brings together cutting-edge life sciences disciplines, ranging from chemical synthesis of PDZ domain modulators to studies in live animals with the overarching aim of gaining fundamental insight into the role of the PDZ interactome in cell biology and human physiology. PDZnet conducts basic research that will advance our understanding of how PDZ domain proteins act as cellular motherboards that orchestrate signaling pathways, including recognition, differentiation and integration of extracellular stimuli into appropriate cellular responses. The PDZnet research thereby aims to shed light on the molecular machinery that is fundamental to life. While the immediate translational perspectives of a project like PDZnet can be challenging to grasp, the insights obtained from our work might in fact pave the way for advancing the utilization of PDZ domains as relevant therapeutic intervention points in major age-associated pathological conditions including cancer, stroke and Alzheimerâ€™s disease. Despite recent intensive drug development efforts, poor treatment opportunities remain a common denominator for these rapidly growing diseases. By bringing together leading academic and industrial experts, PDZnet enhances the awareness of PDZ domains as novel therapeutic targets and may stipulate a paradigm-shift in industrial drug discovery programs. Potential drug candidates ascending from the PDZnet research will benefit the aging European population and the European economy, which is overburdened by increasing healthcare costs. Finally, each of the individual 14 PhD fellows will benefit from a highly structured, innovative and interdisciplinary training that will enhance their future career perspectives and their contribution to progressing human knowledge.

Work performed

We are working with the exploration of PDZ-mediated signalling pathways as a principle for the treatment of cancer and diseases of the nervous system. This involves targeting and exploring protein-protein interactions (PPI) pathways as well as unravelling intracellular protein signalling networks related to nervous system diseases and cancer.
In general, there has been very good progress on all aspects of the project and very encouragingly we already see this documented in a number of high quality publications. Moreover, several publications are underway. These results have been obtained through extensive collaboration across the network facilitated by the ESRs.

Final results

The research is highly complementary and covers a broad reange of disciplines from chemical sythesis to studies in animals. The research resulted in 14 publications in a wide range of publications covering oncology, molecular and cell biology, allergy and stem cells. It is expected that the efforts of the network will result in a new and deeper understanding of protein protein interactions and the mechanisms influenicing them. The results could be the basis of a new approach for pharmaceutical companies. PDZnet delivers useful results.