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Cancer and Human Immunology Group

Leader: Dr Hilary Warren

Research
Current research is aimed at understanding receptor ligand interactions that regulate the function and proliferation of human natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are an important cell of the innate immune system where they are the first line of defence against virally infected cells. NK cells produce a range of cytokines that can influence the type of antigen specific immune response, and the cellular response in immune inflammation. NK cells may also attack cancerous cells, especially if these cells acquire the phenotype of virally infected cells such as lower levels of class I MHC antigens. Our research programme has several components.

First, we have a cell based study that focuses on receptor interactions that activate and inhibit NK cell cytotoxicity and proliferation using monoclonal antibodies as reagents to ligate receptors. This study concentrates on the Killer Ig-like receptors (KIR) and the CD94/NKG2 lectin receptors that monitor class I MHC antigen expression on potential target cells. These receptors can either activate or inhibit NK cell function, but what regulates these activities is not known.

Second, we are analysing NK cells in patients with chronic NK lymphocytosis and various autoimmune diseases to assess the state of NK cell activation, and whether the expression and function of class I MHC receptors on NK cells is modulated by the disease process.

Third, we are undertaking a molecular programme to investigate novel human NK cell receptors. Although many NK cell receptors are known, the ligands for many of these receptors have not yet been identified. We are generating soluble extracellular domains of these receptors with the aim of identifying cells expressing ligands to the receptors using a sensitive fluorescent multimeric based technology, with planned subsequent identification of those ligands.

 

Contacts:
T: +61 2 62442928/ 62443949
E: Hilary.Warren@anu.edu.au 

Mail Address:
The John Curtin School of Medical Research
GPO Box 334
Canberra City ACT 2601 Australia