Transferrin Receptor 1 (TfR1) is the key gateway for iron entry into cells by binding to iron loaded transferrin on the cell surface and internalising the complex through clathrin-mediated endocytosis (Fig.1). TfR1 is overexpressed in a range of cancer types which may allow for selective targeting with minimal off target effects. It is also implicated in immune cell regulation.

As a surface protein with restricted expression, TfR1 is well-suited forpeptide-based modalities.

In collaboration with Orbit discovery, we have identified a series of cyclicpeptides, that bind to TfR1 with nM affinity and have favourable preliminary ADME and  physical chemical properties.

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