FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are essential for restraining immune function. Their antagonism of autoimmune responses is crucial for health, but they also block responses to chronic infection and cancer. We are interested in how cell death processes shape the homeostasis of Treg cells with a view to modifying them to tailor immune responses. We have discovered the molecular control of Treg cell apoptosis under steady-state conditions (papers #2, 6, 7, 8) and recently defined a new pathway controlling the population during inflammation. This project will explore how to engage Treg cell death to improve responses to cancer and infection.
Team members:
Dr Charis Teh, Dr Lucille Rankin, Dr Alissa Robbins