How can we specifically disrupt signaling cascades that promote invasive motility in the tumor cells? Is it sufficient to prevent the interaction of proteins to halt an oncogenic phenotype? How can we test for/exclude non-desired off-target activities of an effective small molecule compound, to guarantee specificity and increase safety?

The FGFR signaling pathway is a main driver of tumor growth and progression in MB and other pediatric and adult solid tumors. To disrupt oncogenic FGFR signalig, we identify small molecule inhibitors to block signal transmission between activated FGFRs and downstream signaling pathways. We collaborate with experts in the field of drug discovery, chemistry and proteomics to identify, biophysically validate and functionally test novel protein-protein interaction inhibitors targeting FGFR signaling.