Molecular Dissection Of Cytokine-mediated Regulation Of Human B-cell Differentiation.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$119,314.00
Summary
Interleukin 21 is a molecule which activates B cells. Defects in this pathway cause immunodeficiency where individuals cannot make antibodies, while constant activation has been reported in mouse models of autoimmunity. Examining these pathways will shed light on the causes of human immune disease, and may reveal molecules that could be targeted for the treatment of immunodeficiency and autoimmunity. Amplification of normal immune responses could lead to the development of improved vaccines.
Preventing Infections In Patients With Blood Cancer Through Evidence-based Use Of Immunoglobulin Or Alternatives: The RATIONALISE Trial
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$2,490,421.00
Summary
Patients with blood cancers, with immune deficiency from low antibody levels and other disease or treatment factors, are at risk of life-threatening infection. Immunoglobulins (Ig) made from plasma can supplement antibody levels. Government criteria recommend stopping Ig therapy in stable patients, but with no evidence for when or how to do so. RATIONALISE will provide this evidence, to improve patient outcomes, reduce risks and costs, and make better use of blood products for the community.
The Control Of Autoimmunity Originating From Somatically Hypermutated B Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$530,337.00
Summary
Our immune systems are capable of producing long-lived antibodies that can last a lifetime. Sometimes, this powerful process can however become abnormal and result in autoimmune diseases such as lupus. We have recently developed the first experimental mouse model that allows researchers to study this process in great detail. This funding will extend our initial observations by identifying the exact mechanisms by which important regulators of autoimmune disease act.
Lymphocyte Differentiation And Genetics Of Primary Immunodeficiency
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$143,676.00
Summary
Primary immunodeficiency diseases affect a large number of individuals. Due to abnormal immune responses, these people are at risk of frequent, severe infections, as well as complications of autoimmune disease and cancer. Treatment often involves regular immunoglobulin (antibody) replacement. Through a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these immunodeficiency diseases, we hope to be able to determine genetic causes, and more cost-effective and targeted treatment options.
Identifying The Molecular Basis Of Memory B Cell Function And Human Immunoglobulin E Memory Via Hyper Immunoglobulin E Syndromes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$96,009.00
Summary
Memory B cells generate rapid and potent antibody responses to known threats. The molecular basis for this is unknown, but defects increase the risk of infection, autoimmunity, and allergy. Autoimmunity and allergy are often mediated by a poorly understood antibody subclass, immunoglobulin E (IgE). My project will use emerging single-cell technologies to reveal the molecular mechanisms of antibody memory and IgE regulation, enabling the design of superior vaccines and immunomodulatory therapy.
Nodal Function In Peripheral Neuroinflammatory Disorders: Target Antigens, Functional Significance And Treatment Response
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$605,172.00
Summary
Inflammatory neuropathies are autoimmune disorders which produce severe disability and represent a costly burden to the healthcare system, but the causes remain unknown. Recent evidence from our team suggests that antibodies against parts of the peripheral nerve at the node of Ranvier are involved. The project aims to identify these specific targets and monitor treatment responsiveness, stabilise nerve function and prevent persistent disability.