Edgar Rivedal

Our research group studies the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor suppression, with focus on the role of intercellular communication. One important mechanism for intercellular communication involves the direct transfer of signaling molecules between neighbouring cells via intercellular channels. These channels are assembled in specialized plasma membrane domains called gap junctions. Gap junctions play important roles in a variety of cellular processes, including cell growth control and differentiation. A large body of experimental evidence indicates that loss of gap junctional intercellular communication is an important step in cancer development.

Gap junction channels consist of a family of trans-membrane proteins called connexins. Several members of the connexin protein family have been shown to function as tumor suppressor proteins, and are potential biomarkers and targets for chemoprevention. We aim to elucidate the mechanisms involved in down-regulation of connexins during cancer development, and to understand the molecular basis underlying their role as tumor suppressors.

Research interests