Identifying host genes that abrogate immunity
Using an extensive array of gene-targeted mice and innovatively engineered haemopoietic chimeric animals, in which genes can be reversibly silenced mimicking a therapeutic drug, we are able to interrogate which signalling pathways promote or obstruct immune mediated clearance of chronic overwhelming infections.
Signalling pathways that are being examined include cytokine networks, NFκB, JNK, pattern recognition receptor signalling, apoptosis and necroptosis pathways. Utilising virological, molecular and immunological techniques we are able to determine which genetic pathways are most amenable to therapeutic targeting and offer the greatest translatable potential to promote immune mediated control of human chronic overwhelming infections.
