Defining The Role Of B Lymphocytes In Breast Cancer At Single-cell Resolution
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$645,205.00
Summary
B cells, a type of immune cells, are likely protective against breast cancer, albeit through unknown mechanisms. Over the next 5 years I will apply high-resolution profiling and imaging of B cells within breast cancer biopsies to understand their contribution and identify novel clinical targets, leading to better patient outcomes.
Tailoring Dendritic Cell Diversity To Advance Effective Immunotherapies
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$645,205.00
Summary
Dendritic cells (DCs) constitute the first line of defense against infection and cancer. To achieve this feat, DC have evolved into a sophisticated network of specialized subtypes, although how this diversification process occurs is yet to be fully clarified. We have uncovered a new molecule, termed DC-SCRIPT, which has a key role in establishing the DC network, specialization and function. This offers crucial new clues as to how to manipulate DCs to either boost or dampen the immune system.
Peri-conception Determinants Of Reproductive And Pregnancy Health
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$3,560,520.00
Summary
Reproductive and pregnancy disorders are common in Australian men and women, with 6% couples seeking infertility services and another 30% experiencing recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia or preterm birth, often resulting in life-time health problems for children, and sometimes stillbirth. This research will investigate the immune causes of these conditions, and the results will contribute to new health tools, diagnostics and medical treatments to support maternal and infant health.
Targeting Epigenetic Mechanisms Of Immune Evasion In Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,425,280.00
Summary
Proteins called MHC class I and II on the surface of cancer cells act as sensors that allow the immune system to recognise cancer cells as abnormal and destroy them. However, cancer cells have developed ways to hide from the immune system by silencing MHC class I and II. This project aims to identify ways to overcome this silencing and restore MHC class I and II to the surface of the cancer cells, allowing them to be treated with therapies that activate immune cells to eradicate the tumour.
Understanding Immune Responses To Severe Influenza Virus Infection And Vaccination In Humans
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$645,205.00
Summary
During influenza virus infection, people acquire robust and long-lasting immunity. However, current influenza vaccines elicit only transient immunity. I will define optimal responses in different immune cell types after natural infection versus vaccination; understand why some people fail to generate protective antibodies to the vaccine; and identify key biomarkers aimed at reducing influenza disease impact in high risk groups. This work will improve future influenza vaccination regimens.