While prostaglandins (PCs), fatty acid derived signaling molecules, mediate cell migration during inflammation, immune reactions, reproduction, and cancer, the mechanisms by which PGs regulate migration remain unclear. It is likely that PGs contribute to cell migration through similar means during both normal cell migrations and those that take place during cancer metastasis. As PG synthesis and signaling components have been evolutionary conserved, one can utilize the genetic tools available in Drosophila to uncover the activities and signaling events mediated by PGs during cell migrations at a level of detail that cannot easily be obtained in other species. To establish Drosophila as a model for studying PG signaling the expression and mutant phenotypes of conserved PG synthesis and signaling components will be characterized. Then, using a genetic interaction screen the PG biogenesis genes involved in cell migration, as well as which signal transduction components and cell adhesion molecules important for PG mediated migrations will be determined. As PG synthesis is upregulated in numerous cancers, the results may reveal novel mechanisms of cancer progression and identify new diagnostic tools or therapeutic targets for cancer. ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32CA119676-03
Application #
7487522
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F05 (20))
Program Officer
Myrick, Dorkina C
Project Start
2006-09-01
Project End
2009-07-31
Budget Start
2008-09-01
Budget End
2009-07-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$48,415
Indirect Cost
Name
Carnegie Institution of Washington, D.C.
Department
Type
DUNS #
072641707
City
Washington
State
DC
Country
United States
Zip Code
20005
Tootle, Tina L; Spradling, Allan C (2008) Drosophila Pxt: a cyclooxygenase-like facilitator of follicle maturation. Development 135:839-47