Identification of targeting molecules to tumors and evaluating the efficacies of therapeutic genes for gene therapy

Using phage-display techniques, our laboratory attempts to isolate potential tumor-specific peptides that may interact with tumor cell surface epitopes. The targeting abilities of these candidate peptide sequences will be studied with the aid of animal models and techniques such as in vivo imaging and laser-scanning confocal miscroscope. In parallel, strategies to enhance tumor immunogenicity by insertion of cytokine or co-stimulatory molecule encoding genes or direct tumor kill by insertion of an apoptotic inducing genes and genes encoding prodrug activating enzymes are also under investigation. 

Collaborators and Team Members:

• Paula Lam (Senior Scientist)
• Ivy Ho (Graduate Student)
• Liu Bee Hui (Graduate Student)
• Lim Kar Sian (Research Officer)