CRO2 presentation :

The formation of a Center for Research in Biological Oncology and Oncopharmacology (or CRO2) in Marseilles results from the association of 3 research units (INSERM, CNRS, Université de la Méditerranée et Université de Provence), all recognized by the Cancéropôle PACA. The goal of this association is to reach synergy in studies to propose new strategies in solid cancer (pancreas, melanoma, glioblastoma…) therapies. In spite of recent advances, cancer remains the leading cause of death for males, even ahead of cardiovascular disease, and ranks in second position (after cardiovascular disease) for females. The worldwide frequency of cancer is increasing steadily. Two factors may explain this phenomenon. First, current diagnostics of neoplastic pathologies are becoming more sensitive. Secondly, the average age of the population in constant increase supports neoplasia.
Strong correlations were observed between tumor growth and neo-angiogenesis. Creation of new blood vessels is essential to bring nutrients and oxygen to the growing tumor. The process of neoangiogenesis results from an imbalance between pro-angiogenic factors and anti-angiogenic factors. Cells or matrix metalloproteases take part in the angiogenesis which starts with a loss of contact inhibition with endothelial cells that migrate, proliferate and then reorganize to form new vessels. This movement of endothelial cells depends upon 1) intercellular chemotactic mediators secreted by the tumor cell (growth factors, cytokines), 2) interactions of endothelial cells with stromal (integrins) or endothelial (selectins) receptors, and 3) substantial changes in the cell cytoskeleton. Consequently therapies are now targeting neo-angiogenesis, using monoclonal antibodies against growth factors, and their cognate receptors and anti-cancer drugs affecting the dynamics of the cytoskeleton. The natural evolution of solid tumors is to generate distant metastases, a phenomenon involving the release of tumor cells from the primary neoplasm into the general circulation, via the neo-vasculature, the survival of these cells in the circulation, their specific adhesion to the vascular endothelium followed by the transmigration through the endothelium. Finally, once they reach their target organ, tumor cells start to divide to form metastases. The growth of metastases also requires cell mediators and their corresponding receptors (paracrine and autocrine mechanisms).

Human Resources :

Director :

LOMBARDO Dominique

Assistant Director :

BRAGUER Diane

Staff :

Assistant Professors and Professors : 42
Reseachers : 11
Engineers and Technicians : 36
PhD Students : 32
Postdoctorates : 7
Personnel under contract : 3

Address :

CRO2

Faculté de Médecine et Faculté de pharmacie- Timone

27 Boulevard Jean MOULIN

13385 Marseille-cedex 05

FRANCE