Marc Therrien and his team are interested in the signaling mechanisms that govern cell proliferation, differentiation, and motility, particularly those of the RAS-MAPK pathway and closely interconnected parallel pathways. Disruption of these fundamental processes is central to the formation of many cancers and their metastatic spread.

Research theme

Marc Therrien and his team are studying the RAS-MAPK pathway, a central axis of cellular signaling whose deregulation is responsible for many cancers. Their integrated approach uses functional, molecular, biochemical, and structural tools, including cryo-electron microscopy, to elucidate the architecture and activation mechanisms of the multiprotein complexes that regulate the RAS-RAF-MEK-MAPK cascade. These mechanistic analyses are essential for identifying new therapeutic targets.

The laboratory is also interested in emerging regulators of cell migration and tumor dissemination that act in conjunction with or in parallel to the RAS-MAPK pathway. The team analyzes their interactions, dynamics, and contribution to pro-metastatic programs. At the same time, it is conducting drug discovery efforts in collaboration with IRIC’s Drug Discovery Unit, led by Anne Marinier, to target various components of the RAS-MAPK network. All of this work aims to highlight new tumor vulnerabilities and enrich therapeutic strategies for RAS-dependent cancers.

Research objectives

The research program is structured around three major objectives:

1. To further the functional and structural analysis of the mechanisms governing RAS-MAPK signaling, in particular by characterizing the multiprotein complexes involved in RAF activation.
2. Deciphering the role of key regulators of cell motility and tumor invasion, whose contribution remains poorly understood despite their involvement in certain aggressive cancers.
3. Developing new inhibitors targeting essential components of the RAS-MAPK network, in order to pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies.

This program aims to identify new targets, clarify the fundamental principles of oncogenic regulation, and promote the emergence of effective therapeutic approaches for RAS-dependent cancers.