Thesis supervisor: Csilla Laczka
Location of studies (in Hungarian): Institute of Enzymology, RCNS, Budapest, Hungary Abbreviation of location of studies: ELKH
Description of the research topic:
Human Organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) are membrane proteins that mediate the cellular uptake of large anionic or amphipatic organic molecules. In addition to their transport of endogenous compounds (bile acids, bilirubin and various hormones), several members of the family are also able to transport clinically applied drugs (e.g., statins, antivirals, chemotherapeutics). Therefore, OATPs may influence the in vivo fate (absorption, distribution and elimination) of drugs. Besides their role in pharmacokinetics, altered expression or function of OATPs has also been documented in various cancers. Hence OATPs are potential targets in anti-cancer therapy. Our major interest is the elucidation of the role of OATPs in chemotherapy response. In addition, by systematic analysis of OATP inhibitors, studies to uncover structure-function relationships are also under way. Finally, newly identified OATP variants with yet undefined physiological or pharmacological role are also investigated.
Required language skills: English Further requirements: MSc degree in biology, biotechnology or biology/medicine/chemistry related sciences. Laboratory skills.