Protease activated prodrugs

Proteases, and membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs) in particular, are known to be elevated in the majority of solid human tumours and to be central to tumour invasion and angiogenesis.  

Current projects include targeting methotrexate for osteosarcoma (funded by Bone Cancer Research Trust), targeting the ultrapotent duocarmycins to treat breast cancer (funded by Breast Cancer Now), and targeting taxanes for prostate cancer (funded by the ICT Doctoral Training Centre).

Projects are led by Prof. Robert Falconer, Prof. Paul Loadman and Dr. Klaus Pors.