Prof. A.B. van Spriel (Annemiek)

Professor Van Spriel’s research focuses on the role of tetraspanins in the immune system and the development of cancer. All of our cells are surrounded by a cell membrane, of which the so-called tetraspanins are a part. These are proteins that play an important role in the organisation of protein complexes in the cell membrane that ensure cell function. There is increasing scientific evidence demonstrating a relationship between tetraspanins and the development of cancer; however, it remains unclear what the underlying mechanisms are and how defects can lead to disease. Van Spriel’s group discovered that tetraspanin CD37 protects against development of lymphoma. Her team is now examining how tetraspanin networks influence the immune system and its relation to the development of cancer. The aim of her research is to gain new insights into the cell membrane in the healthy human immune system and in cancer patients.