Investigators
Dr. Stephanie Trend, Dr. Tao Wang, Prof. Martyn French, Prof. Allan Kermode, Dr. Jonatan Leffler, Prof. Prue Hart
Project description
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition where a person's immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord. Strong evidence shows that a specific type of immune cell, known as B cells, are important to cause attacks of MS. B cells tend to respond to specific targets like viruses or bacteria to cause immune responses, but can also react to our own body, resulting in autoimmune disease. B cells can have a number of important functions, including producing antibodies. Antibodies are small proteins that recognise and bind to specific targets, to direct other immune cells how to respond to infections. This project involves using laboratory-made proteins that mimic natural antibodies, to identify and study the targets for B cells. Identifying the specific targets recognised by B cells in MS may help to diagnose the disease, identify those at higher risk of MS, and develop targeted therapies to be used in future.
Funders
MS Australia
External collaborators
Prof. Martyn French, Prof. Allan Kermode