This research investigates a new targeted treatment strategy for kidney cancer by inhibiting the cancer-promoting protein PIM1 while enhancing TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. Together with the FDA-approved drug ONC201, this combination restores cancer cells' ability to self-destruct, offering a promising therapeutic approach now being evaluated in preclinical studies.
This research develops an affordable, scalable platform for recording electrical activity from brain organoids. Using innovative basket-shaped sensors made from a low-cost conductive material, the system enables simultaneous recording from dozens of mini-brains, accelerating drug discovery and improving our understanding of brain diseases with more human-relevant laboratory models.
This thesis examines cytokine release storm, where the immune system becomes dangerously overactive. Using rat models, mathematical modelling, science and coding, she maps how corticosteroids move through organs and control inflammation. The goal is to optimise treatment for CRS during cancer therapy, COVID or future pandemics.
This research investigates whether weight loss from the GLP-1 drug semaglutide includes loss of muscle mass. Using an obesity mouse model and direct muscle measurements, the study found significant muscle loss in females but not males. The findings highlight important sex differences and the need to evaluate body composition, not just weight loss.
Chronic diseases exhaust the body’s CD8 T cells, weakening their ability to fight infections and cancer. This research identifies CD7 as a key driver of T-cell exhaustion. Removing CD7 keeps T cells active, boosts cytokine production, and improves control of tumors and viruses—offering a promising new immunotherapy target.