Precise control of gene expression is a prerequisite for cellular homeostasis and safeguards against tumor development. Accordingly, dysregulation of transcription factors and thereby of their target genes can induce tumor formation. Our long-term objective is to understand the role of specific transcription factors and coactivators in carcinogenesis which may help to develop novel strategies of cancer treatment and detection.

In particular, we focus on a downstream effector of the oncoproteins HER2/Neu and Ras, the transcription factor ER81, the coactivator and RNA helicase p68, and the oncoprotein Rcl. Using a great variety of technologies, we endeavour to elucidate how these molecules modulate normal cell function and how their dysregulation leads to diseases such as cancer.