An investigation into CD1a, a versatile antigen-presenting molecule. This project aims to investigate how T lymphocytes are activated by lipids presented by the skin-associated antigen-presenting mole

Description

An investigation into CD1a, a versatile antigen-presenting molecule. This project aims to investigate how T lymphocytes are activated by lipids presented by the skin-associated antigen-presenting molecule, CD1a. Using X-ray crystallography and cellular immunology, we will provide fundamental insight into this poorly understood immunological axis. We will determine the molecular basis for how CD1a presents diverse self and foreign lipids, and how such CD1a-lipid complexes are recognised by the responding T cells. This basic science discovery project will provide substantial new knowledge in the burgeoning field of lipid-mediated immunity, which should ultimately lead to new therapies targeting the CD1a lipid display molecule to either prevent immune mediated damage or promote protective immunity as required.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 1107 - Immunology. Lead: Prof Jamie Rossjohn