Discoidin domain receptor 2: a promising target for novel treatment of fibrosis

Manusiwa, Lesley (2020) Discoidin domain receptor 2: a promising target for novel treatment of fibrosis. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Human diseases resulting in fibrosis still remain a major health problem all over the world. Fibrosis occurs when wounds can no longer properly heal resulting in excessive scarring which can impair function of affected organs. Despite many studies, a lack of knowledge of the processes involving formation of fibrotic tissue and its pathogenesis still exists in addition to the need for novel therapeutic targets. One receptor in particular has been brought to the attention recently as a potential new target, namely discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2). In this thesis, the role of DDR2 in fibrosis was assessed by performing literature research. The structure, function, substrate specificity, downstream signaling effects and expression role in fibrosis of DDR2 and its potential as a therapeutic were investigated. DDR2 was found to be a key mediator of collagen deposition due to its ability to influence collagen type I in different ways. DDR2 was also found to be a key mediator of the behaviour of fibroblasts during fibrosis, regulating proliferation, migration, cell adhesion, ECM remodeling and apoptosis. Finally, the expression of DDR2 was found to display differences in progression of fibrosis among organs. In conclusion, DDR2 makes a promising, yet complex target for novel therapies regarding fibrosis.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Bank, R.A.
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	17 Jul 2020 09:02
Last Modified:	17 Jul 2020 09:02
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/22757

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