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Optical profiling of cancer cells

My research focuses on combining microscopy and pooled genetic screening methods to identify the regulators that underpin cancer resilience. By developing a high-throughput optical screening method specific to ferroptotic iron-dependent cell death, we revealed regulatory genes that help cancer cells survive lipid peroxidation damage. Targeting such regulators in the future may help weaken otherwise resistant and recurring cancers.

I am especially interested in how reactive metal ions are both vital to cells and can also cause aberrant cellular function and tumorigenesis in the wrong conditions. Investigating cellular metal uptake and metal storage mechanisms could tell us more about how they may be better wielded against cancers and how in other contexts, they can also initiate cell death in healthy cells and encourage cancer development.