Sara Collins

Research focus: Development of replicating retroviral vectors (RRV) for prodrug-activator gene therapy of cancer. RRV vectors expressing various E.coli nitroreductase enzymes for activation of the prodrug CB1954 have been generated and characterized, and assessment of their therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo has been accomplished for the treatment of brain tumors. Evaluating the use of RRV vectors expressing nitroreductase or cytosine deaminase for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Other duties-- Lab Manager: Oversee the efficient daily operation of the lab, responsible for purchasing lab supplies and for maintenance of lab equipment, ensure that the laboratory and its personnel are compliant with university and state regulations, implement lab protocols, write and maintain lab-specific SOPs.

Research focus: Development of replicating retroviral vectors (RRV) and bacterial vectors for prodrug-activator gene therapy of cancer. Both RRV and bacterial vectors expressing various E.coli nitroreductase enzymes for activation of the prodrug CB1954 have been generated and characterized, and assessment of their therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo has been accomplished. Research focus: In vivo imaging of bacterial vectors for cancer gene therapy strategies. This work concentrated on the confirmation of transgene expression following in vivo administration of bacterial vectors, using in vivo imaging systems such as IVIS (for luciferase bioluminescence imaging) and microPET (for imaging HSVtk gene expression).

Research focus: Adeno-associated Virus Vectors for Cancer Gene Therapy. This project involved the production, purification and titration of a number of AAV vectors and the assessment of these vectors for cancer immuno-therapy and/or anti-angiogenic therapy.

Performed stability testing of both finished products and validation batches in accordance with FDA and IMB regulations and time frames.