The role of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in lymphoma tumor growth

Promotie: mw. B.D. Roorda, 13.15 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Proefschrift: The role of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in lymphoma tumor growth

Promotor(s): prof.dr. W.A. Kamps

Faculteit: Medische Wetenschappen

Contact: via de persvoorlichters van het UMCG, tel. 050-361 2200, e-mail: voorlichting bvl.umcg.nl

The role of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in lymphoma tumor growth

This investigation showed that mesenchymal stem cells MSCs can promote lymphoma tumor growth (Daudi Burkitt). The results provide us more insight in the mechanisms by which MSCs can contribute to tumor growth. It was shown that MSCs protect tumor cells against cell death, and that this affect can be abolished by administration of the drug PTK. In addition, it was found that p27KIP1 plays an important role in the promotion of Burkitt lymphoma growth in response to micro-environmental factors. Our results indicate that p27KIP1 and its upstream regulators may be important targets in the treatment of Burkitt lymphoma.