Optimisation of CCR7-based cellular models for future use in drug development programmes

Pilgrim, Emily Nicole (2026) Optimisation of CCR7-based cellular models for future use in drug development programmes. MSc(R) thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

C-C Chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) is a cell surface receptor expressed on a range of immune cells, where it plays a critical role in mediating cell migration, chemotaxis, and immune homeostasis through interactions with its two specific ligands, CCL19 and CCL21. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that cancer cells can exploit CCR7 expression to hijack its natural mechanisms, promoting the metastatic dissemination of malignant cells throughout the body. While CCR7 has been identified as a promising therapeutic target, it also presents significant challenges as targeting this receptor could disrupt immune function and lead to adverse effects, including chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases.

In this study, CCR7 is evaluated as a potential biomarker in oncology by analysing its expression and functional role across selected cancer models, whilst simultaneously attempting to establish a transient and validated CCR7-expressing cell-based system to support future high-throughput drug screening efforts. These findings provide insights into the oncogenic role of CCR7 and establish a platform for targeted therapeutic discovery, while also addressing the biological implications of modulating this receptor.

• Item Type: Thesis (MSc(R))
• Qualification Level: Masters
• Keywords: CCR7, CCL19, CCL21, Chemokine receptors, Colorectal Cancer, GPCR, HEK293 cells, immune microenvironment, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, lymphatic dissemination, metastasis, prognostic biomarker.
• Subjects: R Medicine > R Medicine (General); R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
• Colleges/Schools: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Supervisor's Name: Baillie, Professor George and Edwards, Professor Joanne
• Date of Award: 2026
• Depositing User: Theses Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:2026-86002
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 12 Jun 2026 11:14
• Last Modified: 12 Jun 2026 11:16
• Thesis DOI: 10.5525/gla.thesis.86002
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/86002