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Biomedical Sciences Research Seminar Series

Aptamers: the future of biomarker detection or a fool's errand?

Atomic structure of a biological molecule
Seminars

As part of the School of Science and Technology Biomedical Sciences Research Centre Seminar Series, Dr Tom Illingworth, University of Derby presents: Aptamers: the future of biomarker detection or a fool's errand?

  • From: Wednesday 11 March 2020, 1.10 pm
  • To: Wednesday 11 March 2020, 2 pm
  • Location: ERD 282, Erasmus Darwin, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS
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Event details

As part of the School of Science and Technology Biomedical Sciences Research Centre Seminar Series, Dr Tom Illingworth, University of Derby presents: Aptamers: the future of biomarker detection or a fool's errand?

Abstract

Improvements in the detection and treatment of disease are occurring all the time, however the way in which we can approach the design of these treatments may be in for a big change. Following the expiration of a US Patent in 2013, there has been an explosion of interest in aptamers, short oligonucleotide/peptide sequences which can be raised against specific targets via systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). Within my PhD I was fascinated with the potential of these molecules, and attempted to raise an aptamer against CD59, an 18–22kDa membrane protein responsible for the inhibition of complement  is over expressed in multiple cancer sites, is associated with poor prognosis. If an aptamer could be raised against this target then it could have applications in both the diagnosis and treatment a wide variety of solid state cancers.

Bio

I completed my PhD in 2019 investigating the potential of modified metallic nanoparticles which incorporated a CD59 targeting motif at Leeds Beckett University within the School of Clinical and Applied Sciences starting in 2014. Prior to this I studied for a BSc (hons) in Biology from the University of Derby in 2011, and an MSc in Molecular and Cellular biology from Sheffield Hallam University in 2013. Thomas’ research interests include nanotechnology and nanobiotechnology, with a focus on how these technologies can be used to improve the treatment of cancer. Following completion of my PhD I started working at the University of Derby as a Lecturer in Biomedical and Public Health.

Hosted by Dr Heidi Sowter

All welcome.

For any enquiries please contact Dr Amanda Coutts

Location details

Room/Building:

ERD 282, Erasmus Darwin

Address:

Nottingham Trent University
Clifton Campus
Clifton Lane
 Nottingham
 NG11 8NS

Past event

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