Dr Concetta Bubici
Senior Lecturer

Topics

Understanding the mechanisms of metabolic reprogramming in cancer: towards novel therapies

Cancer cells possess a near-universal metabolic phenotype known as aerobic glycolysis (or the Warburg effect), which is characterized by the consumption of glucose to generate intermediary metabolites (precursors of nucleotides, proteins, and lipids) and reducing equivalents (such as NADPH) required for the doubling of cellular biomass and to suppress apoptosis, respectively. Importantly, increased aerobic glycolysis provides cancer cells with an antioxidant defense against oxidative damage induced by certain anti-cancer drugs. Therefore, studies aimed at reducing the sugar addiction of cancer cells would be beneficial for developing new treatments. In this project, you will examine whether drug-resistant and drug-sensitive cancer cells display distinct metabolic features and aim to do a series of laboratory experiments to investigate the ability of probes, or drugs, to starve cancer cells of glucose. If successful, this could lead to exploring the combination of drugs being tested in cancer patients. We have established a groundbreaking collaboration with clinical scientists at the University of Leeds and Imperial College London to conduct impactful research focused on enhancing current therapies for solid and hematological cancers. 

We welcome inquiries from motivated and qualified applicants from all around the world who are interested in PhD studies. Click here for our PhD opportunities 

If you are interested in joining us, please contact Dr Concetta Bubici.