Luke R
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
Expertise
Cancer biology, Gene Editing, Pharmacology, Immunology, CRISPR, Viruses, Genetics, Cell biology, Molecular Biology, Drug Development
Bio
Hey, my name is Luke Riggan. I received my PhD from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) in 2021. My thesis work was completed in an immunology lab where we studied the role of Natural Killer (NK) cells during viral infection and cancer. Specifically my project determined which transcription factors (signals that turn genes on or off) control NK cell persistence and effector function during viral infection. I authored over a dozen articles, many of which are published in top journals such as Nature Immunology. In addition I am very interested in cancer immunotherapy, particularly NK cell based immunotherapies targeting cancer. I have written a review article which outlines the harsh environment a NK cell faces when it enters the the tumor micro environment. I currently work at a gene therapy start up In my free time I spend it being active either hiking, taking my dog (9 year old Samoyed) on adventures, camping, playing basketball, weight lifting or rock climbing.Project ideas
Advancing CAR T Cell Immunotherapy for Cancer Treatment
This project focuses on the transformative potential of CAR T cell therapy, a breakthrough in cancer treatment that engineers immune cells to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. Participants will explore key aspects of CAR T cell development, including the biology of T cells, CAR design, and challenges in optimizing therapies for specific cancers. Through comprehensive research and analysis, participants will collaborate to produce a literature review summarizing the latest advancements, clinical outcomes, and future directions of CAR T cell immunotherapy. The project aims to culminate in a published research paper, contributing valuable insights to this cutting-edge field in oncology. Highlights: -o- Investigate the biology of CAR T cells and their application in targeting cancer. -o- Analyze recent clinical trials, treatment outcomes, and advancements in the field. -o- Collaboratively author a literature review for submission to a scientific journal.
Revolutionizing Drug Delivery with Nanoparticles
This project explores the cutting-edge field of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, a transformative approach to improving the precision, efficacy, and safety of therapeutics. Nanoparticles are engineered to target specific cells or tissues, allowing for the controlled release of drugs directly to disease sites while minimizing side effects. Participants will dive into the fundamentals of nanotechnology and its applications in medicine, focusing on: -o- The design and fabrication of nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery. -o- Methods to enhance stability, biocompatibility, and drug loading efficiency. -o- Applications in treating diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Key Objectives: -o- Review recent advancements in nanoparticle drug delivery and identify current challenges. -o- Propose innovative strategies to overcome barriers in clinical translation. -o- Collaboratively produce a literature review or concept proposal for a novel nanoparticle-based therapy, aiming for publication or presentation. This project provides an opportunity to engage with one of the fastest-growing areas in biotechnology, where the intersection of biology, chemistry, and engineering promises to redefine the future of medicine.
