RESEARCH topics
Role of RNA methyltransferases in the cell growth and proliferation
Methyltransferases are enzymes that methylate nucleic acids, proteins or small molecules and through this modify their biochemical and cellular functions within the cell. Our research is focused on RNA methyltransferases, specifically on the WBSCR22 protein and its co-factor TRMT112. We have identified the network of methyltransferases, consisting of seven proteins, interacting simultaneously with the same co-factor TRMT112, which is required for their stability and activity in the cells. Several members of this TRMT112-methyltransferase network are involved in cell growth and division, and malfunctions in their activity may lead to uncontrolled proliferation of cells causing different malignancies. Our goal is to elucidate their function in the cells and to find out how the cross-talk with each other is achieved.
Currently working on this topic are: Margit Mutso (PhD), Mihkel Suija (MSc) and Endrik Jürgenson. Watch our former PhD student Baiba Brumele (PhD) work by clicking on the picture!
MAGEA proteins in tumorigenesis
Melanoma-associated antigen A (MAGEA) family proteins represent a class of tumor antigens that are expressed in a variety of malignant tumors, but their expression in normal tissues is restricted to germ cells. MAGEA proteins are cancer-testis antigens which expression is linked to poor prognosis in cancer patients. The biological functions and underlying regulatory mechanisms of MAGEA expression in cancer is still not fully understood. Our goal is to study in-depth the molecular functions of MAGEA family proteins and elucidate their role in cancer progression.
Currently working on this topic are: Kristiina Kurg (MD, PhD), Lisbeth Verk (MSc), Marleen Tilga (BSc) and Artur Paduri. Watch our former PhD student, dr. Anneli Samel, work by clicking on the picture!
MAGEA4 proteins and extracellular vesicles
Expression of MAGEA proteins induces the budding of cells and formation of extracellular vesicles with different sizes, 150 to 1500 nm in diameter. We have shown that the MAGEA4 proteins are attached efficiently to the outer membrane of extracellular vesicles in cell culture model. EVs offer interesting prospects for improving the delivery of therapeutic agents due to their intrinsic properties, such as tissue tropism and biocompatibility and our aim is to use the MAGEA4 protein in development of EVs with desired properties.
Our former PhD student Olavi Reinsalu (PhD) worked on this topic from an engineering EVs angle (watch him at work by clicking on the picture!), this topic is now carried on by Kristiina Kurg (MD, PhD), Lisbeth Verk (MSc) and Artur Paduri.
Plant-derived exosomes as carriers of bioactive substances in skin care
The project is driven by the aim to improve people’s health and well-being by developing natural and environmentally friendly skin care products. The skin is one of our largest organs, whose function is to protect us from external environment. The health of the skin depends of the strength of its protective barrier, this is the skins first line of defence. The goal of the project is to isolate exosomes from the plants of Estonian origin, test their biological properties, and create a science-based basis for the use of exosomes in skin care. We plan to isolate exosomes from 15-20 plants, determine their biophysical and biochemical properties, yield, effect on cell proliferation, viability and collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial characteristics. As a result of the project, one to three exosomes that could be used in natural skin care products are selected. Currently working on this topic are: Margit Mutso (PhD), Kristiina Kurg (MD, PhD), Mihkel Suija, Lisbeth Verk and Eve Toomsoo.
PREVIOUS PROJECTS
Liquid biopsy markers for melanoma
This project is dedicated for finding of new diagnostic markers for malignant melanoma. Melanoma is a malignancy of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Despite being the least common form of skin cancer, it has one of the highest mortality rates. The goal in melanoma diagnostics is early detection with an ability to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions. Our aim is to find tumor-derived biomarkers from peripheral blood, using specifically extracellular vesicles from the blood plasma and serum.
Kristiina Kurg (MD, PhD) worked on this topic. Watch Kristiina work by clicking on the picture!