Reet Kurg, professor of molecular biomedicine

In our research activities, we focus on the investigation, characterization, and potential use of cancer antigens as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. We are primarily focused on melanoma antigens, specifically the MAGE-A family of proteins. MAGE-A proteins are expressed on the surface of extracellular vesicles in cancer cells, and our interest is to determine the function of MAGE-A proteins within the cell and their potential role in tumor formation. We also work on designing extracellular vesicles (EVs) with beneficial properties and purifying and characterizing EVs from biological fluids.

Another research topic is the role and mechanism of action of methyltransferases in cell proliferation. Methyltransferases are enzymes that methylate proteins, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules, thereby modulating their biological activities. Our research focuses on characterizing the functions of human rRNA methyltransferase WBSCR22 and its interaction partners in mammalian cells. In our research, we use various biochemical, molecular biology, and proteomics methods, with animal cell cultures as our model system.

Also, visit our website!

Exploring oscillation mechanisms influencing cell fate

Publications

Team:

Professor of Molecular Biomedicine, Reet Kurg

Researcher Margit Mutso

Ph.D. students:

Kristiina Kurg

Baiba Brumele

Paule Hermet (industrial Ph.D. student)

Master's students:

Mihkel Suija

Aleksandra Lupp

Alexey Nesterovich

Laboratory specialist:

Eve Toomsoo (eve.toomsoo@ut.ee)

Evgeniia Serova