Biochemical analysis of Akt 3-specific signal transduction

Funded Activity Summary

The Akt family of enzymes consists of 3 protein kinases (Akt 1,2 and 3) and has been shown to regulate many normal cellular processes such as cell proliferation, growth, survival and motility, as well as the growth of new blood vessels. All these processes are critical for cancers to grow. However, few studies have distinguished the roles of the individual family members. Our preliminary data revealed Akt3 is far more active than the other two forms. Furthermore, using our unique Akt3 specific antibody, we find Akt 3 protein and activity levels are high in rapidly proliferating ovarian cancer cell lines and in primary ovarian tumours. The aim of this proposal is to characterise the mode and role of signalling via Akt3, including the identification of targeted substrates and signaling pathways and the outcomes of Akt3 driven signaling on cellular properties. These studies will provide important clues to understanding how this family member functions in both health and disease. Elucidation of the basis of Akt3 dependent signalling will open the possibility for the development of drugs that interfere with Akt3 function (for example in high Akt 3 expressing tumours like those of the ovary). In the long term, extension of our profiling studies to other tumour types will give a novel insight into the extent of Akt3 de-regulation as a key mediator of cancer formation.

Funded Activity Details

Start Date: 01-01-2005

End Date: 01-01-2007

Funding Scheme: NHMRC Project Grants

Funding Amount: $349,375.00

Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council

Research Topics

ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)

Enzymes

ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)

There are no SEO codes available for this funding activity

Other Keywords

Cancer | Enzyme kinetics | Ovarian Cancer | Protein Purification | Protein kinase | Signal transduction | Therapeutic targets

Related Links