Research group - Göran Andersson

TRAP and cancer development

Increased TRAP is found in several primary malignant tumours, including breast, ovary and melanoma and often links to increased mortality. Therefore, we are studying the molecular mechanism behind the effect of TRAP in cancer development as well as characterizing new TRAP inhibitors. We have shown that TRAP increases the proliferation, migration and invasion of cancer cells and that this is associated with extracellular matrix and cell adhesion modulations.

Loading for strengthening the ageing skeleton (Sara Windahl PI)

Osteoporosis-related fractures constitute a major health concern and result in a huge economic burden on health care systems and much suffering to the patients. Mechanical loading as a result of load bearing physical activity, and estrogen receptor (ER) signalling are major regulators of bone mass. We and others have demonstrated that the bone anabolic response to mechanical loading is mediated via ERs. The molecular mechanisms for the crucial role of ERs for these effects are mainly unknown.

TRAP isoforms as biomarkers of different conditions

TRAP exists as two isoforms 5a and 5b. Both has been proposed as biomarkers for different cell types and conditions. TRAP 5b is used as marker for osteoclasts while TRAP 5a has been suggested to be a marker for inflammation. However, it has not been possible previously to measure TRAP 5a and 5b in the same sample. Therefore, we have recently developed a double TRAP 5a/5b protein sandwich ELISA enabling measurement of TRAP 5a and 5b in the same sample in co-operation with Mabtech AB. This gives us a new tool to study the potential of TRAP 5a and/or 5b as biomarkers.

TRAP in adipose tissue and obesity

Overexpression of TRAP leads to non-inflammatory hyperplastic obesity in mice due to increased proliferation and differentiation of new adipocytes. Also, in obese humans TRAP is elevated. We have shown that TRAP is secreted from adipose tissue macrophages and act on pre-adipocytes to increase proliferation and differentiation. Thus, TRAP and/or its receptor may be an interesting target to explore in different adipose tissue related disorders, including obesity and anorexia.

TRAP as a marker for distinct populations of tissue-resident and inflammatory macrophages

In addition to investigating the effect of TRAP on other cell types we are also studying the effect of TRAP on macrophages which expresses both TRAP 5a and TRAP 5b. I order to better understand the role of TRAP we are characterizing the phenotype of TRAP 5a+, TRAP 5b+ and TRAP- macrophages in different conditions e.g. smoke exposed mice lungs in a collaboration project.

Research group leader Göran Andersson