Construction and characterisation of anti-tumour magnetic fusion proteins for use in diagnostics and therapeutics

The aim of this research is to construct and analyse novel proteins that are magnetic and are able to recognise and attach to tumour cells. The proteins will be designed and made using established molecular techniques, produced in bacteria, purified and then magnetised. The magnetised proteins can be purified from non-magnetised material simply by using strong magnets. The proteins will be tested to see if they are able to bind effectively to targets found on tumour cells using a variety of techniques. These magnetic proteins will then be assessed in the laboratory for their utility in tests to detect and diagnose cancer, and for their ability to kill tumour cells. The cell binding capability of the proteins will not only be suitable for removing tumours but will be useful in emerging technologies including whole body imaging (such as MRI scanning). Thus the potential value to human health is several fold: the development of sensitive diagnostic methods will be applicable to health issues in addition to cancer, such as diabetes, cardiovascular health (e.g. heart attacks and stroke), autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and infectious diseases including hospital-acquired infections.