Defining the contribution of skin gamma delta T cells to cutaneous immunosurveillance, immunity and disease after HSV infection. [ 2012 - 2015 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Cheryl Jones (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Stephen Alexander

Brief description Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes genital herpes and encephalitis. Disease is severe in the immunocompromised and the newborn. HSV enters through breaks in the skin or mucosa, where it first encounters gamma delta T cells. We have recently made the key finding that HSV can infect gamma delta T-cells shortly after inoculation. Here we will study how they contribute to the immune response when a virus enters the skin in mice and human tissues. This may lead development of new topical antiviral vaccines.

Funding Amount $AUD 601,386.44

Funding Scheme Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant