Tapasin And Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Antigen Presentation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$226,650.00
Summary
An effective T cell response (cellular immune response) to infections is vital to a functional immune system. Normally, proteins are cleaved into small molecules called peptides and these peptides are in turn presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex molecules to T cells. However, we have only partial understanding of what determines the choice of peptides that are finally presented to T cells. Recent research suggests that a molecule called tapasin may also influence the choice of peptides. ....An effective T cell response (cellular immune response) to infections is vital to a functional immune system. Normally, proteins are cleaved into small molecules called peptides and these peptides are in turn presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex molecules to T cells. However, we have only partial understanding of what determines the choice of peptides that are finally presented to T cells. Recent research suggests that a molecule called tapasin may also influence the choice of peptides. This research proposal aims to examine the role of tapasin in this regard. A thorough understanding of the basic principles of peptide presentation to T cells is crucial to the design of effective vaccines. Furthermore it will also broaden our understanding of immunological responses to cancer, autoimmune diseases and infections.Read moreRead less
The Unique Nature Of Gamma Delta T Cell Recognition Resolved Through Interaction With H2-Q10
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$699,031.00
Summary
The liver is important for both digestion and immunity. Given these opposing functions, the liver must exert control points that prevent the immune system from recognising food products. We have now identified a new molecular target that controls the development of immune cells in the liver.
Unraveling The Link Between HLA B27 And Autoimmunity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$746,102.00
Summary
Ankylosing spondylitis and related diseases cause significant morbidity in up to 0.25% of the population. Current treatments have limited efficacy and often debilitating side effects. More targeted peptide antigen based therapies will have fewer side effects and would be of major clinical importance to this group of diseases. This project seeks to identify peptide antigens that could be used in targeted immunotherapy. We also seek to understand how some of the idiosyncratic properties of HLA B27
The liver is an important organ in terms of immune responses. Owing to its exposure to many antigens, it is required to maintain a form of immune tolerance. This ensures that overt immune responses which would damage the liver do not occur. One means by which tolerance occurs is through silencing killer cells through the regulation of molecules of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). This project will explore the role of a soluble form of MHC which is expressed only in the liver.