Wittung-Stafshede Research Group

While proteins are the workhorses of living organisms, metal ions are equally critical in biology. We study how human cells use proteins to control copper – an essential but potential toxic metal – and how imbalances in copper homeostasis contribute to diseases. Cellular copper levels are often elevated in cancer, and we discovered that a specific copper transport protein promotes cancer cell migration, which is a key step in metastasis. In contrast to cancer, cellular copper levels are often reduced in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Here, we study the proteins that form amyloid plaques – a hallmark feature of these disorders. We recently discovered that amyloids, long considered chemically inert, can unexpectedly act as enzymes and catalyze chemical reactions. We are now investigating the extent of this amyloid reactivity, the role of metal interactions, and how phase-separation to liquid condensates contributes to these biological processes. Building on our findings in neurodegeneration, we also begin to explore the emerging role of amyloids in cancer.

Our research can be viewed as a mixture of biophysics, biochemistry, and bioinorganic chemistry: we combine purified proteins, spectroscopy, microscopy, biochemistry, cell structure, and computational methods, often in collaboration with other groups. Each student’s project is different and can be tuned in many directions depending on interests. I believe strongly that an inclusive and diverse environment where we support, trust, and complement one another is essential for scientific success. While making important contributions to society, we should have fun and enjoy pushing ourselves to new limits.

Pernilla Wittung-Stafshede, Group Leader