Understanding The Role Of MAIT Cells In Health And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$547,593.00
Summary
A specialised set of T lymphocytes called Mucosal Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells protect us from bacteria and yeast at mucosal sites where the body's immune defences are most easily breached, e.g. gut, oral cavity, airways & reproductive tract. This study investigates the role of MAIT cells in health and in diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulceration, periodontitis and tuberculosis. Controlling MAIT cells could help in treating these conditions.
An Investigation Into The Molecular Basis Of MAIT Cell Recognition Of Vitamin B Based Metabolites
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$883,762.00
Summary
Mucosal associated invariant T cells (MAIT cells) are an abundant T-cell population in humans, that is found mostly in the gastrointestinal mucosa. We have recently shown that MAIT cells can be activated by metabolites of vitamin B. This proposal will investigate how the MAIT cells "see" vitamin B metabolites. This research will pave the way for novel therapeutics that can modulate MAIT cell activity.
The Host Response To Highly Pathogenic Influenza Virus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$237,981.00
Summary
Highly pathogenic influenza infections are a global health concern and cause global panic. There is no effective therapy available; for example and the death rate for H5N1 infection is ~60%. Here we propose to further understand host lung response to highly pathogenic influenza with a view to develop new therapies for this urgent issue.
Enhancing Host Defence Against Intracellular Pathogens By Preventing INOS Interaction With A Negative Regulator, SSB-2
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$448,881.00
Summary
Secretion of nitric oxide (NO) gas by immune cells is a critical defence mechanism for the killing of intracellular pathogens. Production of NO within cells is regulated by the enzyme iNOS. We propose that preventing iNOS from interacting with its natural inhibitor protein (SSB-2) would allow enhanced and prolonged iNOS expression leading to increased NO and increased killing of pathogens such as the mycobacterium tuberculosis and the Leishmania parasite.
The role of the innate immune response in the asymptomatic nature of viral infections in bats. Bats are natural reservoirs to a variety of viruses, including many that are lethal in humans and other mammals. This project will generate fundamental information on the mechanisms involved in the asymptomatic nature of viral infections in bats and contribute towards the development of new antiviral strategies for other susceptible species.
The role of a novel protein, interferon epsilon, in reproductive tract immunity. This project aims to develop a world-first description of a new protein that has a protective role against female reproductive tract infections. This unique protein, called interferon epsilon, was discovered in our laboratory. This project will facilitate development of new therapeutic approaches of benefit in diseases such as Chlamydia and Herpes Simplex Virus.