Novel models and therapeutic approaches in bladder cancer
As part of a long-standing collaboration with the Center for Cancer Research (CCR) at the Medical University of Vienna, we are establishing novel cell models from fresh tumor material that aim to reflect the biological situation in patients as accurately as possible. We thoroughly characterize these models at the molecular level (transcriptional profile, mutation patterns, etc.) and relate the resulting data to corresponding patient material (e.g., tumor tissue, blood, urine) as well as to large in silico bladder cancer datasets, which are extensive, publicly accessible international databases. The aim is to establish a cohort of disease-relevant, preclinical bladder cancer cell models.
Using these patient-relevant models, we pursue projects to determine the molecular mechanisms of tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance, as well as to support the preclinical development of new therapeutic strategies. The availability of (partially corresponding) clinical material and patient data enables us to place biological in vitro findings in the context of the clinical course of disease (tumor aggressiveness, therapy response, etc.) Another research focus is the detection of genetic alterations in bladder tumors and their impact on tumor therapy. In this context, we aim to establish predictive mutation markers that can guide therapeutic decision-making.
Urogenital microbiome
We also investigate the urogenital microbiome, i.e., the bacteria that colonize the urogenital tract. Our focus is particularly on studying their role in the development of diseases such as kidney stones and bladder cancer. In this context, we also examine how the composition of bladder-colonizing bacteria affects the success of anti-tumor therapies.
Funding
Our work has been, or is currently being, supported by funding from the following institutions and companies:
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Austrian Science Fund (FWF)
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Austrian National Bank
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Medical-Scientific Fund of the Mayor of the Federal Capital Vienna
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Roche Austria
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Pfizer Corporation Austria GmbH
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European Association of Urology (EAU)
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Richard Übelhör Research Fellowship of the Continuing Education Commission of the Austrian Society of Urology and Andrology
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Fellinger Cancer Research
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Karl Landsteiner Society