Aptamer-decorated magnetic beads targeting T-Cell enrichment for application in CAR-T cell therapy

This project aims at developing a magnetic nanoparticle-based technology that couples novel aptamers (MNP@apt) for targeting T-cell enrichment for CAR-T cell therapy applications. The proposed method offers several advantages to antibody-based isolation of T-cells, namely stability and ability to release captured T-cells. Finally, we aim to develop a method that can be amenable to large-scale industrial production, given access to high capacity oligonucleotide and MNP production as well as downstream functionalization. Galenvs aims at commercialising this technique and make it readily available for CAR-T cell therapy and other clinical research applications. The research exchange will result in a Master’s thesis project and impart essential skills required in biotechnology industry. The intern will receive training in an industry setting and will learn key techniques such as MNP production and characterisation, oligonucleotide aptamer design and synthesis, as well as development of clinically-relevant assays.

Faculty Supervisor:

Maureen McKeague

Student:

Partner:

Galenvs

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McGill University

Program: