In this project, we aim to take a closer look at the extracellular vesicle (EV) mediated communication between prostate cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts, which are special mesenchymal cells within the tumor microenvironment. To do so, we isolate EVs secreted by prostate cancer-associated fibroblasts, characterize them molecularly (with a focus on their miRNA-expression pattern) and investigate which effect these EVs have on the proliferation, migration and invasion potential of prostate cancer cells treated with them. Hereby, we hope to gain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the interaction between prostate cancer cells and cells from their local microenvironment, which ultimately foster tumor growth and stimulate the metastatic spread of cancer cells. 

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