Targetting cellular iron to control immunity

Iron is a critical element for cellular metabolism, and the ability of cells to access iron significantly impacts their function. This project aims to develop innovative tools to precisely control how specific cell types acquire iron, without affecting other cell types within the same organism. These tools could serve two important purposes: first, as research tools to investigate how different cell types respond to iron deficiency, and second, as therapeutic agents to impair iron-dependent processes in cells involved in diseases.

For instance, by selectively reducing iron access in immune cells, it may be possible to inhibit their function in autoimmune or inflammatory disorders.

The project will involve advanced protein engineering to design molecules that regulate iron access in target cells, cell culture techniques to test these molecules, and flow cytometry to analyse their effects on different cell types. Additionally, 'omics technologies will be used to study changes at the molecular level, and imaging techniques may be employed to visualise the effects in real-time.

The research aligns with MRC strategic priorities by developing new tools for cell biology, disease modelling, and therapeutic intervention, while providing training in essential skills like protein engineering, cell culture, and innovative analytical techniques.