Engineering imaging agents to expand function and options in cancer management

This research aims to engineer a bacteria-derived siderophore (iron-transporting molecule), to enable it to tightly bind zirconium instead. Radioactive zirconium is used in positron emission tomography (PET) and enables sensitive in vivo imaging of the location of any molecules the zirconium is associated with. Our preferred siderophore has structural features that allow it to readily be conjugated to monoclonal antibodies and then used both for PET imaging to inform surgical decision-making, and also to visibly guide tumour resection during surgery. Applicants should ideally have experience working with non-ribosomal peptide synthetase enzymes, and should contact Prof Ackerley prior to applying. This project is for a single student.