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Magnetic monoclonal antibody reagents for use in cancer diagnostics and therapy

Supervisor: Dr Jenny Woof, Division of Cancer Research, Medical Research Institute, Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY

Background 

Over the last decade, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have become established as highly effective therapeutic agents in the treatment of various cancers, inflammation, infections, and a range of other conditions. In fact, mAbs are currently one of the fastest growing classes of therapeutic agent. Building on this success, there is enormous interest in development of novel mAb-based reagents designed for new treatment options. To this end, this project will construct and characterise a panel of novel magnetic mAb-based fusion proteins designed to improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This exciting collaboration brings together Integrated Magnetic Systems Limited, a biotechnology company whose core technology is based on such fusion proteins, with an academic lab at the University of Dundee with expertise in antibody engineering and biology.

The Project

The aim will be to design and characterise magnetic mAb-fusion proteins directed against tumour-specific markers that have been validated in previous studies. Sequences encoding the portions of mAbs responsible for their tumour specificity (scFvs) will be fused to sequences encoding ferritin components which will mediate metal binding. Following expression and purification, the fusion proteins will be loaded with metal and magnetised. Using a variety of assay formats, the magnetised proteins will be fully characterised in terms of their biochemical properties, their antigen binding specificities and affinities, and their capabilities to mediate tumour cell killing.

       The student will spend time in both the academic lab at the University of Dundee and at Integrated Magnetic Systems Limited, based nearby in Dundee's Technology Park. The project will provide training in a wide range of techniques including DNA manipulation, cell culture, affinity chromatography, fluorescence and electron microscopy, immunological assays such as ELISA and flow cytometry, molecular interaction analysis by surface plasmon resonance, and tumour killing and three-dimensional tumour penetration assays. The student will also gain insights into commercialisation and intellectual property issues via the industrial partner. Immersed in a stimulating and supportive environment, the student will thus have direct exposure to many different aspects of both academic research and the biotechnology industry.

 

How to Apply

Applications are invited from suitably qualified students who have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline.

Applications including:

should be sent to Dr Jenny Woof  Division of Cancer Research, Medical Research Institute, Mail Box 3, Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY. Informal enquiries, please contact Dr Jenny Woof, telephone number 01382 740095.

Closing date: 10 February 2012

 

Funding Notes

The 4 year studentship which offers a generous stipend (£16,000 per annum rising to £16,500 over the 4 years) is funded by Medical Research Scotland, and will start in October 2012. Tuition fees are provided at UK/EU rates. Please note that international fees are not covered.