Integrins play an essential role in multicellular life by connecting cells to the extracellular matrix. This thesis provides an overview of the distinct types of integrin-containing cell adhesion... Show moreIntegrins play an essential role in multicellular life by connecting cells to the extracellular matrix. This thesis provides an overview of the distinct types of integrin-containing cell adhesion complexes present in epithelial cells. By employing BioID we succesfully characterized the composition of focal adhesions, flat clathrin lattices, and hemidesmosomes. In addition, we investigated the role of different adhesion complexes in (cancer) cell adhesion, migration, polarity, and proliferation and in mechanotransduction. Show less
In this thesis, we aim to shed light on the diverse and often opposing roles of integrin α3β1 in cancer. Our work highlights that the role of α3β1 in cancer depends on time and place: the nature of... Show moreIn this thesis, we aim to shed light on the diverse and often opposing roles of integrin α3β1 in cancer. Our work highlights that the role of α3β1 in cancer depends on time and place: the nature of the cell environment (such as extracellular matrix composition), type of cancer and its driving mechanism, as well as the stage of the disease. We provide a new insight into the mechanisms behind the role of α3β1 in HER2-driven breast cancer and in DMBA/TPA-induced non-melanoma skin tumorigenesis. Show less
