Determining the role of Rel/NF-kB transcription factors in CD8 T cell homeostasis. [ 2005 - 2007 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Dr Raffi Gugasyan (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Gabrielle Belz

Brief description NF-kB proteins comprise a family of transcription factors that regulate key genes involved in immune responses, inflammation, cell death and proliferation. This family of proteins are potential drug targets for treatment of various diseases. How and when such inhibitors are used in clinical situations depends on understanding how and which cells of the immune system are specifically affected by the absence of NF-kB proteins. In a number of treatment settings intercurrent viral infections occur frequently and therefore there is an even greater need to understand how the immune system may be affected or compromised in response to the primary treatment. This work will provide insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms affected by the absnece of a particular NF-kB family member (NF-kB1) in CD8 T cells during normal T cell homeostasis and when challenged with viruses. What we learn from our experiments could have important implications for the development of vaccines.

Funding Amount $AUD 426,500.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes New Investigator Grant