Connections between nerve cells in the brain often occur onto enlarged protrusions called dendritic spines. This proposal will investigate the properties of dendritic spines, and relate differences in spine properties to synaptic plasticity. This information can be used to better understand and treat neurological disorders associated with spine malfunction, as occur in some forms of mental retardation, and may help with understanding the memory loss that occurs during ageing and dementia.
I am an immunologist-virologist studying aspects of the interface between the innate and the adaptive immune systems with the aim of developing new interventions against disease.
I am a cellular immunologist with expertise in antigen processing-presentation, CTL determinant selection and immunodominance, T cell differentiation and, cancer immunotherapeutic trials and cancer vaccine development.
I am a viral immunologist studying the requirements for an effective host response to viral infection. I am also investigating the potential for the development of efficacious vaccines to protect against infection and ways of intervening in the disease pr