Pneumococcal disease is one of the biggest killers of children under 5 years of age worldwide, mostly in developing countries. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines are highly effective at reducing pneumococcal disease however the duration of protection and the immune factors involved is unknown, particularly when fewer than the recommended number of doses are used. My fellowship aims to examine the key immune factors that provide long-term protection following pneumococcal vaccination.
Systems Immunology Of Antigen Specific T Cells: From Single-cell To Immune Protection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$470,144.00
Summary
T cells are key for establishment of immune protection and object of ongoing research in vaccines and more recently immunotherapy against infections and some cancers. Their dynamics are complex and many mechanisms remain unknown that could be exploited for modern therapies. Here, in a systems approach I will combined single cell technologies, immunology and computational biology to identify the factors that determine the establishment of long term memory cells utilising a unique set of samples.
Understanding The Regulation Of Cell Polarity In Development And Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$428,602.00
Summary
Cell polarity is the property of cells to be spatially oriented in a tissue or organ. We have now shown that the gene Scribble, a key regulator of cell orientation, may keep tumour development in check. In this proposal, we will examine how disruption of Scribble and associated molecules affects normal development and promotes cancer using a combination of tissue culture studies and a newly established mouse model. These studies may provide novel targets for therapeutic intervention in cancer.
Vestibulo-ocular Reflex Physiology, Pathology And Diagnosis.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$387,489.00
Summary
A sensation of movement from the inner ear is used to stabilise vision during head movements. Without it, every time you walk, run, or drive on a bumpy road, the world would appear to bounce. It can be debilitating when this sense doesn't work due to various diseases. This research examines what causes these disorders and how the brain responds to help recovery. A diagnostic technique, that we will develop for wide clinical use, will be used to assess and identify treatments.