Structural And Functional Characterisation Of The Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor (KIR) Family Of Natural Killer Cell Receptors
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$348,070.00
Summary
Natural Killer (NK) cells are an important component of the immune response to cancer and infection. This project will define the molecular targets that are recognised by NK cells. This knowledge can then be used to guide in the selection of bone marrow donors in the treatment of leukemias as well as understanding how we fight off infections.
Understanding The Host Pathogen Relationships Of Hendra Virus In Bats, Horses And Humans
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$648,339.00
Summary
We will examine why bats can be infected with Hendra Virus with no apparent symptoms, yet the virus causes severe disease in other mammals including humans. We will examine the innate immune response towards the virus in the natural host (fruit bats), horses and humans. In addition to the innate immune response we will also examine the adaptive immune response in bats and humans. We hope this information can be used to design new drugs or vaccines to Hendra Virus.
The Unique Nature Of Gamma Delta T Cell Recognition Resolved Through Interaction With H2-Q10
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$699,031.00
Summary
The liver is important for both digestion and immunity. Given these opposing functions, the liver must exert control points that prevent the immune system from recognising food products. We have now identified a new molecular target that controls the development of immune cells in the liver.
Structural And Functional Investigation Of Killer-Cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptors
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$546,966.00
Summary
Natural Killer (NK) cells are an important component of the immune response to cancer and infection. This project will define the molecular targets that are recognised by NK cells. This knowledge can then be used as a guide in the selection of bone marrow donors in the treatment of leukaemias as well as understanding how we fight infections.
Understanding Natural Killer Cell Development And Target Recognition
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$408,388.00
Summary
Immune detection and eradication or control of cancer and cancer immunotherapies are based in part on the idea that tumour-specific white blood cells can protect the body from tumour development, growth and metastases. While strong evidence supports this, the means by which these white cells first recognize the cancerous tissue is largely unknown. We will study a new family of white blood cell receptors that may be important in this recognition, either naturally or following therapy.
New Mechanisms Regulating S100 Protein Function In Inflammation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$813,929.00
Summary
This project will examine new ways which affect the major effector cells in allergic inflammation and asthma regulated by novel S100 protein mediators. We find a natural protein (S100A12) of the innate immune system, in cells in the lungs of patients with acute asthma. S100A12 activates mast cells to release mediators that trigger asthma attack. We will characterise the proteins with which this protein binds on the cell surface and and determine how this mediates their activation.