Molecular Signaling

A signaling pathway is more than one event; it is a series or cascade of molecular interactions that regulate cell activity, such as proliferation (growth and division), apoptosis (end of cell cycle or programmed cell death) and immune response. Malignant cells can influence signaling by up-regulating, downregulating or even silencing genes, in effect, promoting their own survival and metastasis.

Researchers are looking deep into cells to elucidate pathways and correlate them with specific events. Once they understand what the genes do, they will work to come up with therapies to restore normal function or derail the pro-tumor activity. What they learn will allow them to treat diseases, such as cancer, in a more direct and effective way.

Learn more about the work and laboratories investigating molecular signaling.

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