Physiologic And Aberrant DNA Recombination In B Lymphocytes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$408,768.00
Summary
B cells produce antibody which is critical to fight infection. In order to perform this function, antibody genes must first be modified by immune enzymes. However, abnormal DNA attack by these enzymes outside of antibody genes can result in B cell cancer. How the immune system detects and destroys cancerous B cells is poorly understood. This research will provide insight into these processes, and in doing so will further our understanding of how B cell cancers develop and how they are destroyed.
Perforin Trafficking And Activation In Killer Lymphocytes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$292,639.00
Summary
Perforin (PRF) is a protein essential for the function of cytotoxic lymphocytes during an immune response in humans. Humans deficient in PRF are severely immunosuppressed and fall critically ill if they contract a viral infection. The partial loss of PRF function can also predispose an individual to cancer. We aim to investigate the functional and biochemical properties of PRF. The outcomes of this study will determine how PRF influences the immune system and immune homeostasis in humans.
Identifying T Cell Correlates Of Protective Immunity To Malaria In Childhood
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$396,026.00
Summary
Malaria claims nearly one million lives each year, mostly children. Although those living in endemic regions can acquire natural immunity, it develops slowly and isn`t completely protective. This project studies the impact of different levels of malaria exposure and age on the development of a protective immune response in children. By understanding the effect of high malaria exposure in the development of immunity it is hoped that new avenues for drug development may be identified.
Investigating The Delivery Of Cytotoxic T Cell Lytic Granules And The Microenvironment Of The Immunological Synapse
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$355,169.00
Summary
T cells recognise infected or cancer cells and eliminate them from the body. They kill their targets by tightly attaching and releasing toxic proteins, which cause the target to undergo cell suicide. This research will use high resolution imaging to investigate the environment of the synapse between the two cells and understand parameters required for the delivery of a lethal hit. This will provide powerful insights into the working of the cell, and may identify novel intervention targets