Robert Falconer

Biography

Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford (2005-present) Lecturer in Pharmaceutical Sciences; The School of Pharmacy, University of London (2003-2005) Teaching and Research Fellow; The School of Pharmacy, University of London (2000-2003) Locum Pharmacist; Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust (1997-2000) Staff Pharmacist; Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust (1997)

Research Interest

Anti-cancer agents targeting the tumour cell glycocalyx My research is focused on the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of inhibitors of polysialyltransferase as a means by which to modulate tumour cell dissemination. The polysialyltransferases are responsible for the tumour cell surface biosynthesis of polysialic acid (polySia), which plays a key role in the metastatic process in a number of cancers (see review: Curr. Cancer Drug Targets, 2012, 12, 925-939). We are employing computational methods to aid the inhibitor design process and have the capability to assess enzyme inhibition, cell-surface polySia decoration, and effects on cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, cell migration and invasion. This work is currently supported by Yorkshire Cancer Research (programme grant) and the Wellcome Trust (Pathfinder award). Endoprotease-activated therapeutics My research is focused on the transformation of potent cytotoxic agents to inactive peptide-conjugates that are selectively activated within the tumour microenvironment. We are currently interested in the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which are a family of endopeptidases overexpressed in tumours. We are employing both solution and solid phase chemistry to synthesise peptide-based therapeutics with potent but selective cytotoxicity in vivo. Our lead agent, ICT-2588 is now progressing towards clinical evaluation by Incanthera Ltd., a university spin-out company (www.incanthera.com), having recently secured funding from Yorkshire Cancer Research.  Compounds are assessed for in vitro cytotoxicity, successful cleavage in tumour tissue, stability in normal tissues (liver, kidney, lung) and plasma, before being evaluated in vivo. Current projects are focused on development of treatments for prostate cancer and osteosarcoma. This project is a joint effort with Prof Paul Loadman at the Institute, where I oversee the medicinal chemistry aspects of the project. Our research is currently funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research (project). Research Team: Dr Anjana Patel (PDRA; Wellcome Trust 2016-17) Dr Xiaoxiao Guo (PDRA; YCR programme 2015-17) Dr Marcella Sini (PDRA; YCR programme 2015-17) Dr Goreti Ribeiro Morais (PDRA; YCR programme 2014-17)   Ms Marrwa Ali (PhD student; Ahfad University scholarship; 2016-20) Mr Francis Mprah Barnieh (PhD student; Ghana Education Trust Scholarship; 2016-20) Mr Rene Ankrah (PhD student; Yorkshire Cancer Research; 2013-17) Mr Jamal Elbakay (PhD student; Libyan government scholarship; 2013-17) Ms Angela Florin (Placement student; University of York; 2016-17)