Structural Characterisation Of Peptide Bound HLA-DQ2, HLA-DQ8, And Their Specific T Cell Receptors In Celiac Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$33,626.00
Summary
Celiac disease is an inflammatory condition resulting from an inappropriate immune response to dietary gluten, present in cereals such as wheat, rye and barley. In affected individuals, ingestion of gluten can result in bloating, chronic diarrhoea, and malabsorption. At present, the only treatment is strict adherence to a gluten free diet. This project will investigate the immune response to gluten on a molecular level, aiding in the development of new treatments(e.g. non-toxic wheat varieties).
Exploring The Contribution Of The Immunoproteasome To Immunodominance And T Cell Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$82,421.00
Summary
The immunoproteasome is a piece of cellular machinery which degrades proteins and has been shown to enhance the body's recognition and response to viruses and cancer cells. This immunoproteasome is made up of various subunits, but it has not yet been assessed how each of these subunits contribute to the overall response. By studying the individual subunits, we will have a better understanding in how to manipulate the immune system for anti-viral and anti-cancer vaccine design.