Mammalian polarity proteins in skin homeostasis and disease (A10)

• Subject Area: Cell Biology
• Term: from 2013 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 73111208

How cell morphology is coordinated in the context of an entire organ is an intriguing question in biology. Using mouse models and in vitro approaches we ask how conserved polarity proteins impact tissue homeostasis and pathogenesis in mammals. We recently showed that functionally interfering with the polarity protein Par3 alters skin homeostasis, disturbs skin barrier and stem cell maintenance, and affects skin cancer outcome. Future work addresses mechanisms underlying polarity protein mediated coordination of cell and tissue architecture to ensure skin integrity.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 829: Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Skin Homeostasis
• Applicant Institution: Universität zu Köln
• Project Head: Professorin Dr. Sandra Iden