Postdoc Appreciation Event - York

My research focuses on understanding the relationship between ionic dynamics and metabolic changes triggered by hypoxia, in the context of breast cancer progression. I work on an in vivo model of triple negative breast cancer, and I am using a preclinical system of multiparametric MRI to assess changes in the tumour Na+ content and verify if these correlate with areas of high or low oxygenation, or areas with high metabolic activity.

Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic worm that infects millions worldwide, evades the human immune system by secreting specific proteins that modulate immune cell function, allowing the parasite to survive for years. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying this immune evasion, we employed the SAVEXIS method to identify protein-protein interactions between schistosome proteins and a comprehensive library of over 700 human receptors. Potential candidate proteins are tested functionally to identify novel targets for vaccine and drug development and improve the lives of millions affected by schistosomiasis. Additionally, the immunomodulatory properties of parasites offer potential therapeutic applications in autoimmune diseases and allergies which has been shown in many other parasites recently.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, painful joint condition that affects more than 500 million people worldwide. However, there are currently no disease modifying drugs available to treat OA. We are collaborating with GSK to develop a functional genomics screening platform using an immortalised mesenchymal stem cell line developed in our lab. With this screen we are aiming to study the role of OA associated genes in bone and cartilage differentiation and function, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for OA being discovered. In this talk I’ll discuss the process of developing a screen, our progress so far and how collaboration with industry has shaped my postdoctoral project.