Detection of cell surface nucleolin for identification of activated cells in cancer – GYCONUC

It is now well demonstrated that cancer that’s diagnosed at an early stage is more likely to be treated successfully. This is particular true for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) that remains asymptomatic. Consequently, there is an urgent need to identify biomarkers useable in the diagnosis. Among newly investigated receptors for cancer targeting, nucleolin (NCL) is a highly promising targeting molecule especially its molecular form localized at the cell surface. The major goal of this project is to generate humanized antibodies against the O-glycosilated form of NCL that recognize specially cell surface NCL and to use this antibody as toll for diagnosis and prognostic for PDAC. To ensure the achievement of this project, a consortium consisting of biologists, biochemists and glycochemists, expert in carbohydrate synthesis, clinicians and a biotechnology company BCellDesign has been assembled. In perspective of this project, this tool could be extended to other cancers.