Thomas R. Cox, Jan 2019

The extracellular matrix as a key regulator of intracellular signalling networks

Our latest review in collaboration with Dr. David Croucher  and Dr. Dirk Fey on ‘The extracellular matrix as a key regulator of intracellular signalling networks‘ has just been published as part of a special series on ‘Translating the Matrix’ in the British Journal of Pharmacology.

Computational model of the interplay between the ECM and drug activated MAPK‐JNK signalling network.

At their simplest, cells follow a set of rules governed by their genetic code. These rules, which are executed by the protein‐based signalling networks that the genes encode, control the assimilation of information and decision‐making processes that shape a cell’s response to their surroundings.

Continue reading →

Thomas R. Cox, Sep 2018

Recent advances in understanding the complexities of metastasis

We are excited to announce that our recent F1000 Faculty Invited Review on “Recent advances in understanding the complexities of metastasis” has just been published in F1000Research.

Continue reading →

Thomas R. Cox, Apr 2018

Charting the unexplored extracellular matrix in cancer

Our new review on the recent advances in mapping the extracellular matrix in cancer has just been published in the International Journal of Experimental Pathology.

Composed of hundreds of different building blocks, the extracellular matrix (ECM) makes up the complex, highly cross‐linked, three‐dimensional (3D) network of macromolecules (proteins, glycoproteins and its subgroup of proteoglycans, polysaccharides (glycosaminoglycans), elastins and carbohydrates) that surround cells. It is essential to correct organisation and function of all tissues and organs, yet we know remarkably little about the assembly and organisation of these supramolecular structures of the ECM. In this review we discuss some of the recent advances and technologies that are helping us delve deeper into the matrix and further our understanding of the impact that dysregulated ECM has in diseases such as cancer.

Extracellular matrix building blocks

Continue reading →