Role of ceramide metabolism in epidermal homeostasis and melanoma progression

Dr Nathalie Andrieu
Associate Investigators : Dr Joëlle Riond et Dr Frédérique Sabourdy

The most critical step in the initiation of melanoma dissemination is the transition from radial growth (RGP) to vertical growth (VGP). During this stage, melanoma cells lose contact with surrounding epidermal keratinocytes, partly due to epithelial-mesenchymal pseudotransition (EMT). Ceramide and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) have both structural and biological functions in the human epidermis. Our recent studies have shown that human melanomas produce high levels of S1P in the tumour microenvironment. We are evaluating the impact of S1P on epidermal homeostasis, differentiation/proliferation and biological functions of keratinocytes in the control of tumour cells and immune response in the skin.

Financing :

French Society of Dermatology, Association for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute

Illustration :