Developing Quenched Fluorescent Activity Based Probes Specific to Caspase-3

Caspase-3 is a protease involved in apoptotic cell death,that we found in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) during apoptosis.

We are generating highly specific caspase-3 quenched activity based probesthat are stable in vivo to learn on the function of caspase-3 after chemotherapy treatment.

Moreover,we are applying our novel probes to studying the function of caspase-3 in the ER.

Cathepsin L Regulates Metabolic Networks Controlling Rapid Cell Growth and Proliferation

In this project, we investigate the link between lysosomal cathepsin L and changes in cellular metabolism and the influence

on cell proliferation and the efficiency of the glycolysis pathway.

We found that acute inhibition of cathepsin L increases LDHA levels by controllingits lysosomal degradation.

Developing Quenched Fluorescent Activity Based Probes Specific to Cathepsin K

Cathepsin K,a cysteine protease that is involved in cleavage of collagen, gelatin, elastin andother proteins,was found to be predominant in bone resorption.

Cathepsin K is a key factorin several diseases including cancer, atherosclerosis and arthritis.

We are developing specific cell permeable cathepsin K activity based probes to investigate its function in diseases

Investigating the Involvement Cathepsin L in the Cell Cycle

Cathepsin L mostly resides in the lysosome of cells, historically involved in protein processing.

Cathepsin L has been localized to the nucleus of cells at certain phases of the cell cycle.

In this project, using out cathepsin L activity based probe we are investigating the nuclear function of cathepsin L and specific nuclear substrates.

Cathepsin Activity-Based Probes for Diagnosing and Treating Epilepsy

This project aims to develop a novel approach for diagnosing and treating epilepsy–targeting cathepsins within the epileptic brain.

It is based on the potential cathepsins rolesin phagocytic cells in epilepsy.

Thus, studying cathepsin activity and inhibiting it may aid detect epileptic tissue, alleviate seizures, and prevent disease progression.

Cathepsin Involvement in Immunotherapy Resistance

Despite the IT breakthrough the majority of patients still die of their disease many in the field have shown that immune cells

that are not specifically targeted by these regimens are likely the cause.

In this project we are monitoring the cathepsin inhibitors as novel combination therapies to potentiate existing clinical immunotherapies.

Development of Cathepsin Targeted Theranostic Agents for Application in Cancer

This project exploit high cathepsin activity in cancer to target theranostic probes that enable therapy and diagnostics together.

These probes are designed to be detected by CT and activated by non-ionizing light.