Behrendt Group

Key research interests

Niels Behrendt´s research group is focused on cellular invasion and matrix degradation through extracellular and endocytic mechanisms, with particular emphasis to collagen matrices. The group and projects are part of the Cancer Invasion Project Group at the Finsen Laboratory.

The work includes multidisciplinary studies on the protein structure, cellular function and physiological role of collagen receptors and collagenolytic proteases. The proteins particularly in focus are uPARAP/Endo180 and other endocytic receptors for extracellular matrix proteins, as well as membrane type matrix metalloproteases (MT-MMPs). In addition to clarifying biological function, our work aims at developing model therapeutics against these proteins and using those in mouse cancer model systems. Furthermore, we explore the possibility to utilize endocytic processes for imaging or for killing or inactivation of cells that possess specific surface receptors.