Group Leader
Ulla Pentikäinen
Academy research fellow / University lecturer
(Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku)
Email: ulla.pentikainen [at] utu.fi
Contact Information
Turku Bioscience P.O. Box 123, BioCity
(Street addr. Tykistökatu 6 B)
FIN-20521 Turku, Finland
Phone +358 505012574
Description of the Research
Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease that stands as the second leading cause of death globally, claiming millions of lives every year. The multifaceted nature of cancer presents unique challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, prompting a critical need to understand the intricate mechanisms driving its pathogenesis and therapeutic resistance as well as the development of new, more efficient therapeutics.
We are focused on the discovery of new potential therapeutics to different oncogenic targets earlier considered undruggable. We work in close collaboration with MedChem.fi -group. In our research, we employ a robust Design–Make–Test cycle that integrates state-of-the-art virtual screening (computer-aided drug discovery, performed by MedChem.fi -group), in vitro binding affinity assays, and cellular efficacy assays. The molecule discovery pipeline is supported by mechanistic and ADME studies as well as in vivo models.
Group Members
Alumni: Vilma Kaikkonen, BSc, Aino Huuskonen, BSc, Bea Oksanen, BSc, Lotta Ristimäki, BSc, and Linda Kauppinen, MSc
Funding
European Regional Development Fund /
Centre for Economic Development Transport and the Environment 1M+ € 2026-2028
Novo Nordisk Foundation 1.1 MDKK 2026
DRD Doctoral Programme 2026
Business Finland 700k € 2024-2025
