The regulation to early T cell signalling is a critical step in immune responses. Superimposed onto the biochemical pathways is a spatial organization that defines the immunological synapse. My research aims to map the principles of the spatial organization on the molecular scale to identify how lipids could unbalance the dynamic signalling equilibrium, for example in obese patients. To achieve this goal, my research group has developed single molecule microscopy approaches.
Identification And Characterization Of Novel Proteins In Endosomal Cholesterol Transport
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$540,636.00
Summary
Abnormal subcellular distribution of cholesterol is associated with a number of common diseases including heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The overall aim of this proposal is to identify and characterize novel molecules that regulate the transport of intracellular cholesterol. Results from the proposed studies will provide important insights into the molecular mechanisms governing intracellular cholesterol transport and distribution, and will lead to better treatment strategies against hea ....Abnormal subcellular distribution of cholesterol is associated with a number of common diseases including heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The overall aim of this proposal is to identify and characterize novel molecules that regulate the transport of intracellular cholesterol. Results from the proposed studies will provide important insights into the molecular mechanisms governing intracellular cholesterol transport and distribution, and will lead to better treatment strategies against heart disease and dementia.Read moreRead less
Understanding The Role Of The Putative Phospholipid Translocase ATP11c In B Cell Development
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$455,153.00
Summary
The immune system protects humans against recurrent infections with a wide range of pathogens. Formation of antibodies is a crucial element of the immune response. Defects in the production of antibodies can lead to recurrent and often life-threatening infections. This project seeks to understand a genetic defect in mice resulting in an almost complete absence of antibody producing cells, thereby causing a disease that is similar to some forms of human immunodeficiency.
Molecular Characterisation Of Transverse Tubule Development In Skeletal Muscle
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$951,321.00
Summary
Muscle fibres contain an elaborate system of membranes that allow the fibre to contract. This proposal aims to understand how this membrane system develops and how this process is disrupted in disease.
Mechanism Of Bacterial Resistance To Antimicrobial Peptides
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$675,585.00
Summary
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics continues to emerge and intensify. While antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative to current antibiotics, bacteria have also evolved resistance mechanisms to them through changes in their cell membrane. This application will apply a range of analytical and biophysical tools to understand how bacteria change their cell walls in response to AMPs. The results will allow us to design new combination therapies to treat bacterial infections.
How Lipids Affect Signalling Efficiencies In T Cells
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$472,882.00
Summary
A high fat diet can compromise the function our immune system. This project examines how lipids affect T cells. We propose that T cells from mice on a high fat diet can no longer respond to an immune challenge because the signalling processes that lead to activation are deregulated. We have established a new microscopy technique that allows us to measure the efficiency of signalling processes. We will use this method to identify which lipids contribute the most to T cell deregulation.
Membrane Attachment And Components Of The Ca2+ -triggered Release Mechanism
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$386,498.00
Summary
Understanding and harnessing the fundamental cellular process of secretion will provide a wealth of new approaches to addressing problems associated with aging & disorders that are major health care burdens (e.g. neurodegeneration & diabetes). Understanding the vesicle docked state, and the contributions of different molecular components to the release process provides for unique insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms, thereby enabling safe, targeted control of this critical process.