Our vision is to provide increased understanding of proteins involved in cancer invasion, to identify novel molecular targets for cancer therapy among these components and to contribute actively to drug development, realizing the therapeutic potential. To pursue this goal, we study the molecular properties of components engaged in extracellular matrix degradation and cancer invasion and utilize the knowledge obtained for development of novel means of cancer therapy.

Research Focus

Our research focus is cellular receptors and proteolytic enzymes engaged in cancer invasion and the utilization of these components as targets for novel cancer treatment. This therapeutic targeting may be achieved by functional antagonism or by targeted delivery of cytotoxic drugs. We have a particular focus on the development of antibody-drug conjugates. Central findings include:

• The initial discovery, cloning and functional characterization of the collagen receptor uPARAP
• Development of antibodies capable of functional targeting of uPARAP and the membrane-bound matrix metalloprotease, MT1-MMP
• Counteracting osteosarcoma-mediated bone destruction in a mouse model, using antibody against uPARAP
• Development of the first antibody-drug conjugate against uPARAP, which is now moving forward towards clinical trials
• Identifying additional molecular candidates for directed cancer treatment based on antibody-drug conjugates 

Orcid profile of Niels Behrendt

Orcid profile of Niels Behrendt including CV and​ publications​