Grant: Operating Grant

How cells behave and interact is largely determined by interactions between molecules, known as receptors, located on their surface. These interactions are controlled by signals within the cell, through other molecules, and interactions with neighbouring cells. In this project, we are examining the CEACAM family of receptor molecules that have been linked to numerous forms of cancer. These same molecules have also been hijacked by opportunistic bacteria responsible for diseases such as meningitis, gonorrhea, and pneumonia. It is believed that errant signalling of CEACAM is in part responsible for the onset and progression of these diseases. The aim of this project is to develop and apply new ways of directly observing CEACAM molecules in live cells. These new imaging platforms will provide us with the unique opportunity of seeing how CEACAM molecules interact with each other, either on the same cell or between cells. These platforms will allows us to track how these interactions lead to the activation of certain signaling pathways in the cells, and ultimately, will provide us with strategies for repairing or even manipulating these pathways therapeutically.