Home Department: Chemical Engineering
Mentor: Laura Dassama (Chemistry and Microbiology & Immunology)

"Exploring Delivery Strategies for Enhanced Targeting and Uptake of Biologics by Erythroid Precursors to Treat Sickle Cell Disease"

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder caused by a mutation in the β-globin gene of adult hemoglobin, which disrupts oxygen transport and reduces patient lifespan. One therapeutic strategy increases fetal hemoglobin (HbF) by degrading its transcription factor, BCL11A. However, the high impermeability of red blood cells limits delivery of biologic therapies. Nailah’s project explores alternative delivery methods targeting erythroid precursors. This work investigates RNA delivery via nanoparticles and examines whether the cage-like protein ferritin can transfer therapeutic material from easily penetrated macrophages to erythroid cells, potentially enabling new treatment strategies.