Cell Signaling in Cancer and Metabolism

Current projects guided by the Teruel lab focus on how the timing of glucocorticoid circadian rhythms in mice can massively increase insulin secretion and proliferation of pancreatic beta cells and regulate signaling and metabolism in liver and adipose tissues. Our goal is to develop new therapies to treat obesity, diabetes, and NAFLD/NASH (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).

Current projects guided by the Meyer lab focus on cancer and epithelial cell signals that control cell proliferation and migration. Specific projects focus on signals in triple negative breast cancer that may be targeted therapeutically, and mechanisms that can strengthen the epithelial barrier function of intestinal crypt cells.  

1. Cancer signaling (Meyer lab): we investigate general mechanisms how signals control cell proliferation and migration in cancer cells. 

2. Intestinal Crypt signaling (Meyer lab): we investigate how signals coordinate cell migration, proliferation, differentiation and extrusion.

3. Obesity/NAFLD (Teruel lab): signaling and metabolic dysfunction in liver and adipose tissue

4. Diabetes (Teruel lab): focus on understanding the control of beta cell secretion and proliferation