NKT cells and Graft-versus-Leukemia Effects [ 2006 - 2008 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Geoff Hill (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Steven Porcelli

Brief description Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) remains the most effect curative treatment for patients with a number of malignant conditions, especially leukemia. The ability to cure leukemia by this procedure relates to a process known as Graft-versus-Leukaemia effects (GVL) which ocurrs when the newly transplanted stem cells (which includes the immune system) recognises the leukemia as foreign and mounts an immune attack against it. These studies will focus on the effect of a cellular pathway invilving NKT cells that preliminary data suggests is critical to the development of GVL. Methods to augment this activation pathway will be studied in preclinical models that may then be studied in clinical trials with the aim of improving the outcome of patients transplanted for leukemias.

Funding Amount $AUD 299,270.54

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant