Mechano-dependent capture of circulating tumour cells: a cell-ECM based approach coupled with cancer specific glycomarkers

CAPTURE

Epithelial Circulating Tumour Cells (CTCs) often have reduced expression of epithelial markers, such as E-cadherin and isolation based on physical properties is not a selective approach. As such, existing methods to capture live CTCs hold major weaknesses. Herein, we take advantage of the adhesion properties of invasive cancer cells, namely their specific interaction with the extra cellular matrix (ECM). We will couple this functional approach with immunodetection of specific cancer glycomarkers. We have already shown that cancer cells are selectively captured by distinct matrix components. Moreover, we have identified glycan groups exclusive of highly invasive cancer cells that have lost E-cadherin. To attain our goal in capturing live CTCs, we will thoroughly characterize them from their molecular and functional features (cytology, pathology, NGS, tumorigenic assays) and will ulitmately establish a dynamic microfluidic system to advance in live CTCs isolation from liquid biopsies.

Reference:
POCI-01-0145-FEDER-303083
From: 2018-11
To: 2021-10
Funding: 13,125.00
Funders: FCT
Partner: IPATIMUP - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto; Laboratório Internacional de Nanotecnologia (LIN)

Evolutionary Systems and Biomedical Engineering Lab (LaSEEB)

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