Our work package looks at Control of pathogenic autoimmunity through regulation by the autoimmune regulator gene (AIRE) in thymic epithelial cells� and has a major influence on work package no 1). __ Design of specific tolerogenic peptide therapies based on the identification of tissue-restricted self-antigen epitopes escaping tolerance�, but interacts either directly or indirectly with all other packages
The Role Of Mucosal-associated Invariant T (MAIT) Cells And Gut Micro-biota In The Pathogenesis Of Paediatric Autoimmune Liver Disease (AILD).
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$124,676.00
Summary
Liver disease can develop when a faulty immune system attacks the liver, occasionally leading to significant liver scarring and liver transplantation. Children who develop this condition need life-long treatment, but not every child responds. I intend to study immune cells and their activity in the blood and liver of affected children. By identifying the role of the immune system in liver inflammation, we hope to find out why children develop this disease and how best to treat them.
Tolerance Induction By Antigen-presenting Cell-targeted Antigen
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$420,872.00
Summary
We have found that by ‘targeting’ antigen to the cells that ‘train’ the immune system we have been able to prevent the development of autoimmune disease. In the research proposed here we aim to develop new ways in which antigens can be targeted to these cells so that this approach can be applied clinically. The proposed studies will also determine how antigens targeted in this way restore self-tolerance and prevent autoimmune disease.