Next generation antibody-drug conjugates
We are combining mechanistic studies and protein/antibody engineering to overcome a current limitation of using antibody-drug conjugates (ADSs), namely their toxicity towards normal tissue. Our studies integrate the use of protein/antibody engineering and analyses of subcellular trafficking of engineered antibodies/ADCs in tumour cells. ADCs that have improved drug delivery behaviour in these in vitro studies are subsequently progressed to in vivo testing for anti-tumour efficacy.
Characterising the behaviour of antigen delivery vehicles in macrophages
Our studies look to define how engineered antibody-based antigen delivery vehicles behave at the level of subcellular trafficking and signalling in macrophages. Macrophages represent an important type of antigen presenting cell that, depending on their context and differentiation state, can play a role in enhancing or dampening immune responses. Our studies use antibody engineering and advanced microscopy tools to delineate subcellular trafficking and signalling processes.
Image analysis and microscopy
We have ongoing projects related to image analysis for cellular microscopy, specifically single molecule microscopy. We are also developing new advanced microscopy set ups to investigate subcellular trafficking pathways in 3D space with increased spatiotemporal resolution over existing methods. These microscopy tools are being used to delineate the subcellular trafficking behaviour of receptors and IgG molecules within cells, with the goal of using this information to design therapeutic antibodies or antibody-based reagents.
Software
We actively contribute to the development of software. Our aim is to make it easier to gather, process, and analyse microscopy data.