Dysregulation of the IGF-1 receptor and possibile new therapeutic approaches (Catanzaro, Italy)

Added via EurAxess. A link between hyperinsulinemia and cancer is represented by the disruption of the balance between the receptors of the IGF system (i.e. insulin receptor isoform A and B (IR-A, IR-B), the typical and atypical IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR)) and their ligands (IGFs, insulin and proinsulin).This alteration may induce mitogenic signals or resistance to anti-cancer therapies, including those targeting IGF-IR. IGF-IR inhibitors may induce hyperinsulinemia/insulin resistance stimulating IR-A and/or IGF-IR activation. In prostate tumors, the upregulation of IGF-IR by sex steroids is a mechanism of resistance to anti-hormone therapy. The project will evaluate: 1. proinsulin as ligand of atypical IGFIR and mediator of its effects; 2. the crosstalk between sex steroids and IGF-IR as a mechanism of resistance to anti-hormone therapy; 3. the effects of metformin and anti-IGF-IR drugs in inhibiting the IGF-IR upregulation induced by sex steroids.

The deadline for applications to this postdoctoral position, based in Catanzaro, Calabria, is 30 May 2013. For more information and to apply please follow the link to the job advert below.

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