Understanding The Role Of MAIT Cells In Health And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$547,593.00
Summary
A specialised set of T lymphocytes called Mucosal Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells protect us from bacteria and yeast at mucosal sites where the body's immune defences are most easily breached, e.g. gut, oral cavity, airways & reproductive tract. This study investigates the role of MAIT cells in health and in diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulceration, periodontitis and tuberculosis. Controlling MAIT cells could help in treating these conditions.
An Investigation Into The Molecular Basis Of MAIT Cell Recognition Of Vitamin B Based Metabolites
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$883,762.00
Summary
Mucosal associated invariant T cells (MAIT cells) are an abundant T-cell population in humans, that is found mostly in the gastrointestinal mucosa. We have recently shown that MAIT cells can be activated by metabolites of vitamin B. This proposal will investigate how the MAIT cells "see" vitamin B metabolites. This research will pave the way for novel therapeutics that can modulate MAIT cell activity.