Annexin-A1 as a target for T cell mediated pathology in psoriatic arthritis

This PhD studentship focuses on a highly novel drug target (Annexin-A1) that is pivotal in driving a specific type of immune response, which is associated with diseases such as psoriatic arthritis (PsA). In brief, a distinct T cell subset (Th17 helper T cells) has been shown to contribute to the pathogenesis of PsA. Annexin-A1, which is over-expressed in T cells from patients with autoimmune disease, can drive activated T cells toward this pathogenic Th17 phenotype. The aim of this studentship is to profile the expression and function of Annexin-A1 in cells from patients with PsA, and determine how the newly designed neutralising antibody (Annexuzlimab) can regulate the activity of annexin-A1 and the resulting immune response. Furthermore, the student will investigate the cellular signalling associated with annexin-A1 activation to gain insights into mechanism-of-action. We anticipate that the results obtained by the student will allow us to dissect the cellular consequences of annexin-A1 activation and the feasibility of reversing this activation in patients with autoimmune disease. In summation, this project will provide essential information for the development of an innovative drug that can target a crucial aspect of PsA pathogenesis.