Masterarbeiten: DNA-templated Click Chemistry in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

22.10.2024, Diplomarbeiten, Bachelor- und Masterarbeiten

This Master's thesis investigates the translational potential of novel DNA-templated click-chemistry agents for Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

AML remains a formidable challenge, characterised by high relapse rates and resistance to conventional therapies. This project explores a novel therapeutic strategy using bio-orthogonal chemistry, specifically "clickable" nucleoside analogues, to selectively target AML cells while sparing healthy tissue. By leveraging the unique metabolic conditions of AML, this approach introduces modified nucleosides that incorporate into cancer DNA, enabling precise genotoxic targeting via click-chemistry. This project is performed in close collaboration with Dr. Yizhu Li and his team from the Department of Internal Medicine II at the Klinikum Rechts der Isar.

The candidate will primarily be embedded in the junior research group of Dr. Nadia El Khawanky, situated in the TranslaTUM. The foundations of our research group are built on understanding the mechanisms by which cancer cells, particularly leukemia cells, develop acquired resistance to current off-the-shelf therapies or why they are completely unresponsive from the beginning. We delve into the intricate biology of the leukemia cell, drawing on genetics, immunology, and biochemistry to comprehend the complex interplay between them during acquired drug resistance. In doing so, we are then able to extract the information from our findings to decipher possible biomarkers that predict treatment response. Additionally, we also aim to develop more superior and targeted therapy approaches that either prolong or prevent the onset of resistance or overcome it.

This Master's thesis project is for 6 months but must be preceded by an internship of 2-3 months. Background knowledge and first hand practical experience of molecular and cellular biology is required. The position is already available and the starting date can be discussed.

Kontakt: nadia.el-khawanky@tum.de