Jeremiah will give a talk on « Metal–Organic Frameworks as Dual-Function Platforms for Immunology and Therapeutics»
Thursday 4th of December we will receive the visit of Pr. Jeremiah Gassensmith, Associate Professor in Chemistry & Biochemistry at The University of Texas at Dallas. He will give a talk on « Metal–Organic Frameworks as Dual-Function Platforms for Immunology and Therapeutics» it will be at 11 am, at ENS, in room R.
Metal–Organic Frameworks as Dual-Function Platforms for Immunology and Therapeutics
Prof. Jeremiah J Gassensmith, Ph.D.
The University of Texas at Dallas
Dept. of Chemistry & Biochemistry, 800 West Campbell Road, Mail stop: BS13, Richardson, TX 75080
Email: gassensmith@utdallas.edu
https://labs.utdallas.edu/gassensmith/
BlueSky: @Gassensmith
Abstract:
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have rapidly evolved from chemical curiosities into functional materials for biomedical science. Their high porosity, tunable chemistry, and compatibility with biologics enable MOFs to act as protective cages for fragile payloads such as proteins, nucleic acids, and enzymes. In our work, we investigate how MOFs can transition from passive carriers to actively participate in immunology and therapeutic design. Zinc-based ZIFs offer both antigen stabilization and measurable adjuvant effects, capitalizing on the immunological activity of their constituent metals. By introducing manganese nodes, we further exploit the cGAS–STING pathway, showing how Mn-containing MOFs can synergize with cyclic dinucleotides to amplify dendritic cell activation and cytokine production. These dual functions—structural protection and immunological stimulation—enable the development of next-generation vaccine formulations that combine stability with innate immune activation. In parallel, we investigate MOFs as depots for enzymes that neutralize toxic organophosphates, where the crystalline scaffold prolongs enzyme lifetime in vivo and supports prophylactic applications. Together, these studies demonstrate how the rational design of MOFs can integrate materials science with immunology to address challenges ranging from infectious disease vaccination to chemical defense.