Serpin variants as potential therapeutics in bone and skeletal disease

The serpins (serine protease inhibitors) are a superfamily of proteins that primarily regulate protease activity. Serpins such as antitrypsin and antithrombin have been used therapeutically to treat lung, liver and thrombotic diseases. This project will explore the potential of serpin B3 and reactive center loop mutants to target cathepsin K, a protease implicated in osteoporosis, cartilage degradation, and tumour to bone metastasis. A suitable candidate will have a background in Biochemistry or related degree subject.