Introducing Mark Leahy DC7

My PhD goals: My primary goal is to design novel therapies that address particular mutation types in CF. I aim to expand my laboratory skills, developing expertise in ASO design and organoid technology. Through ORGESTRA, I will develop a diverse scientific network and collaborate with a range of like-minded researchers in the field. I look forward to presenting my research findings at conferences and in journal articles, and ultimately aspire to contribute positively to the lives of people with cystic fibrosis.

My Background: I hold a Bachelor’s Honours Degree in Medical and Health Sciences from University College Cork completed in 2023, whereby I developed a core understanding of translational medicine, biochemistry and pharmacology. My undergraduate experience included two intensive summer research projects which sparked my  interest in laboratory-based research. Building on this, I undertook a Master of Research (MRes) in Biochemistry and Biosciences, which I completed in October 2024. This experience enabled me to immerse myself in the research environment and to develop proficiency in a wide range of laboratory techniques, building a solid foundation for my PhD.

My research interests: I am interested in biochemistry, cell biology and pharmacology, with a focus on exploring innovative therapeutic approaches. This interest guided my work with mRNA in my Masters and has now led me to investigate antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) as part of my PhD. While completing my undergraduate degree, I collaborated with the Cystic Fibrosis Ireland organisation, which gave me valuable insights into CF and sparked my interest in contributing to this area of research.

My hobbies: I enjoy water sports and I have worked part-time as a windsurfing and powerboating instructor for a number of years.  I look forward to putting my skills in surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking to the test along Lisbon’s renowned coastline during my PhD.

Master thesis: Delivery of engineered messenger RNA for the treatment of breast cancer

Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has shown to be a safe and transient method of protein expression with the potential for a wide range of applications in cancer therapy. My Master of Research project aimed to design mRNA that, when delivered to breast cancer cells, expressed an engineered therapeutic protein. I used molecular cloning and in vitro transcription to design and synthesise the engineered mRNA, and delivered the mRNA to breast cancer cells by transfection. I evaluated the resulting protein expression by western blot, flow cytometry and immunofluorescent microscopy. Using cell viability assays, I demonstrated that delivery of this engineered mRNA caused a significant reduction in breast cancer cell growth and could have potential applications for patients with breast cancer.