The Role Of NKT Cell Subsets In The Regulation Of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$142,717.00
Summary
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most common cause of paralysis in young people. EAE is an animal model of MS that recapitulates many features of the human disease. Recent data shows that EAE is mediated by IL-17 producing self-reactive T cells. NKT cells are a group of T cells, whose activation protects against EAE, in an as yet unidentified manner. These studies will provide critical information on the way in which NKT cells regulate immunity and will enhance development of therapies for MS.
Identification And Targeting Of A Potent NK Cell “checkpoint” In Tumour Immunity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$470,144.00
Summary
Cancer must evade detection by the immune system in order to develop. Natural Killer (NK) cells can detect and kill cancer cells. We have discovered a potent "checkpoint" in the NK cell activation pathway that desensitizes NK cells to growth factors and switches off their activation and killer function. When this checkpoint is inhibited, NK cells become hyper-activated and prevent most types of cancer metastasis in mice. Targeting this checkpoint in humans could revolutionise cancer therapy
Dendritic Cells In Innate Immunity And Their Potential Clinical Manipulation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$443,946.00
Summary
Dendritic cells (DC) are rare cells that are crucial in response to infection and surveillance of damaged tissues. We aim to understand the tools that are expressed by DC that allow them to sense pathogens and the functions of different DC types once a pathogen has been detected. The ultimate aim is to be able to understand and harness the functions of different DC so that we may directly target them upon demand to aid in the course of infection or potentially as tumour therapy.
Macrophage Inhibitory Cytokine-1 (MIC-1/GDF15), CCAAT/enhancer Binding Protein Delta (CEBPD) And Neuroinflammtion
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$459,270.00
Summary
I will develop new therapies for multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury. I will also evaluate diagnostic and therapeutic uses for macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 (MIC-1/GDF15) that was discovered in Australia. I will confirm its use in screening for bowel cancer. Also, I will look at using it in the indigenous and wider Australian community to improve health and close the gap in life expectancy. Finally, I will conduct trials of MIC-1/GDF15 therapy of obesity and inflammation.