Eline Zwiers is a valued member of Citryll’s research team. As a Research Associate, she plays a key role in driving our scientific efforts forward. Her contributions have been instrumental, particularly in our recent work exploring eosinophil extracellular traps (EETs). In one of our latest manuscripts, Eline helped demonstrate that our antibody, CIT-013, targets not only neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) but also EETs, broadening the therapeutic potential of our approach.
In today’s spotlight, Eline shares a glimpse into her day-to-day work at Citryll and offers insight into what makes our scientific approach so unique.
1. Can you tell us about your research background and what inspired you to join Citryll?
During my Master’s in Biomedical Sciences, I specialised in immunology and cell biology, which sparked a strong interest in the mechanisms of the immune system. When I came across a vacancy at Citryll, I was immediately drawn to the company’s mission and scientific focus. The opportunity to work on innovative immunology-based therapies that have real potential to make a difference in the life of patients was what inspired me to join the team.
2. What does your day-to-day look like as a Research Associate at Citryll?
This varies day by day! I spend a large part of my day in the lab carrying out experiments such as cell isolation and other lab-based work, which I really enjoy. The rest of my time is often spent analysing results, discussing findings with colleagues, and meeting with external parties to discuss ways to collaborate as we progress the clinical development of CIT-013, our first-in-class monoclonal antibody. It’s a dynamic environment that keeps things interesting every day.
3. Could you give us some insights on the mechanism of CIT-013?
CIT-013 has a unique bimodal mechanism of action. On one hand, it binds to citrullinated histones found in neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), preventing the formation of new NETs and thereby reducing inflammation at the source. Additionally, when NETs are already present, CIT-013 enhances their clearance using macrophages. This dual action not only helps reduce ongoing inflammation but also supports a shift toward a more anti-inflammatory immune profile, which could be highly beneficial to patients.
4. What has been the most rewarding project or achievement for you at Citryll so far?
One of the most rewarding achievements for me was publishing a paper on our work with eosinophils as first author a few months ago. The paper showed that CIT-013’s mechanism of action isn’t only specific to neutrophils but is also applicable to eosinophils. This insight on the mechanism of action is important as it broadens the fields of potential application for CIT-013. Being able to contribute to the scientific community in this way, especially as a Research Associate still early in my career, was a proud moment. It’s not always common to reach that milestone so soon, and it’s been incredibly motivating to see my work recognised.
5. What advice would you give to someone aspiring to a similar role in biotech or research?
My advice would be not to worry too much about having all the answers from the start. The biotech field is very flexible and offers a wide range of roles and opportunities. Each company operates a bit differently, so there’s room to grow and find where you fit best. If you’re curious and passionate about science, take the leap – you might discover it’s a great fit for you!
6. What excites you about the potential for CIT-013 and Citryll in the future?
What excites me most is the broad potential of CIT-013 across multiple disease areas. While we’re currently focused on conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and hidradenitis suppurativa, which will be impactful to a wide population of patients, our research with eosinophils suggests the molecule could be applied even more widely, potentially opening the door to a much wider range of patients, which is incredibly exciting and motivating.