Cancer Research

Research at Finsen Laboratory

The research at the Finsen Laboratory is focused on proteolytic mechanisms in cancer invasion and metastasis. We have contributed significantly to what is now, in the general principles, a clear although complicated picture of the mechanisms behind proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix in cancer.

This degradation appears to be crucial for both cancer invasion and metastasis. It is accomplished by a cooperative interaction between several proteases, of which the serine protease plasmin and a number of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are crucial. The activities of these proteases are regulated by a complex array of activators, inhibitors and cellular receptors. In addition, there is a complex interplay between cancer cells and non-malignant stromal cells in the generation and regulation of the extracellular proteolysis. For some types of cancer this cellular interplay appears to mimic that observed in certain non-neoplastic tissue remodeling processes.

This research field has now reached a stage where it presents important clinical implications. Several of the molecules involved in matrix degradation are revealed to be strong prognostic markers in various types of cancer. However, much work is still needed in basic, preclinical and clinical research in order to provide a rational basis for making the clinical applications of our present insights successful.