Details

Antonia Schubert, head of the early-career research group “Extracellular Vesicles and Molecular Signal Transduction in Oncology” at NCT Heidelberg, Medical Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and in the Department of Signaling Pathways and Functional Genomics at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), has received significant funding from the German Research Foundation (DFG) for a new project on the prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer. The grant of approximately 538,000 euros over three years is a significant achievement for the junior research group and strengthens the further development of an independent translational research program.

The project focuses on the question of how colorectal cancer can be biologically detected even in very early stages. The research will examine extracellular vesicles—small particles released by cells that transport proteins and genetic information and play a central role in cell communication. The team aims to investigate how early changes in the APC gene—a key driver of colorectal cancer development—alter the properties of these vesicles and whether markers for the earliest possible diagnosis and risk assessment can be derived from this.

To this end, laboratory models—genetically defined cell and organoid models—will be linked with the analysis of clinical samples. Methods employed include CRISPR-based gene editing, proteome analyses, and data-driven evaluations. The goal is to apply insights from model research to clinically relevant questions, such as non-invasive early detection methods and personalized prevention strategies.

The funding will be used primarily to build the team. The plan is to fund two doctoral positions. In addition, equipment funding is available for molecular analyses and experimental models, including the study of extracellular vesicles and organoid systems.

Photo (from left to right): Antonia Schubert and Nadine Winkler (Ph.D. student)