Rogue B Cell Clones In Patients With Autoimmune Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$916,670.00
Summary
Our immune system protects us from disease by producing antibodies. However, 5% of Australians suffer from an autoimmune disease where they produce “auto” antibodies, which attack their own organs. This research will study the cells (termed B cells) responsible for making autoantibodies to determine how they differ from B cells that defend against disease. The goal is to develop therapies that eliminate autoantibody producing B cells from patients while preserving the immune system.
Exploring The Contribution Of Interferon-lambda To Autoimmune Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$833,235.00
Summary
We have found that a novel protein, normally made in response to viral infections, is found in the blood of Lupus patients. This project will determine the cells that make this protein, what in Lupus blood makes these cells produce it and whether it plays a role in the severity of Lupus disease.
Targeting Autophagy As A Means Of Control Of Cytokine Production In SLE
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$616,518.00
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, or lupus) is a common immune disease that causes organ damage and loss of life, chiefly affecting young women. There is no cure for SLE. We have discovered that a natural process called 'autophagy' could be a way to limit inflammation during SLE. In this project we will discover whether this could lead to a new way to treat this disease.
The Effect Of Genetic Polymorphisms On The Development Of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$50,741.00
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a debilitating disease that predominantly affects women of child-bearing age and may involve any organ. Genetics is one of the most well-recognised risk factors, and yet how genetics can cause lupus is unclear. This study involves examining the entire genetic sequence of individual patients to identify the mutations that cause the immune system to be dysregulated leading to disease.