05 Jun 2020
NHMRC Investigator Grants 2020 | Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells with Dr Sidonia Eckle
Awarded May 2020 for a period of five years.
Project
The role of Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells in protective and aberrant immunity
Context
Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells (MAIT cells) are specialised immune cells found in the blood, liver, respiratory tract, urinary tract and digestive tract that defend the body against infection. These cells are a highly abundant subset of T cells in humans, however little is known about them when compared to other T cells.
"Our multidisciplinary team recently discovered that MAIT cells protect from bacterial infections following recognition of a small molecule metabolite as antigen, derived from bacterial vitamin B2 biosynthesis. This opens the door to many unanswered questions. For instance, do MAIT cells play a role in protective immunity to microbes that do not produce vitamin B2? Do MAIT cells play a role in aberrant immunity, such as allergies, via recognition of allergen-derived antigens?" said Dr Sidonia Eckle.
Building on strong preliminary data and expertise, the purpose of this research program is to determine the role of MAIT cells in protection from infections and allergies. It also looks to identify novel MAIT cell antigens in the context of infections and allergies.
“This research aims to advance our fundamental understanding of the role MAIT cells play in protective immunity in response to pathogens and to provide fresh insights into their role in aberrant immunity, such as allergies."
The program also offers great potential to novel immunotherapeutic agents as alternatives to existing treatments, particularly in areas of tremendous clinical need.
“I’m grateful for the support of the NHMRC Investigator Grant to further our understanding of the importance of MAIT cells in protective and aberrant immunity. Along with assistance from The University of Melbourne and other grants, this investment will allow me to deepen our knowledge of this field and grow my research programme within Professor Jim McCluskey’s lab.
“It’s fantastic to collaborate with colleagues here at the Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, the Parkville Precinct and beyond. I am also grateful to my mentors who have backed this work and the grant application process.”
“I feel honoured to be part of the Doherty Institute and a supportive community - what a great research environment to work in!” said Dr Eckle.