EFFECTS OF TYPE I INTERFERONS IN CHRONIC VIRAL INFECTIONS

Summary

When type I interferon signalling is impaired, infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus results in chronic infection and dysfunctional CD8+ T cell function. Investigate how CD8+ T cell function leads to chronic viral infection and if reactivation can promote virus clearance.

Supervisor(s)

Dr Markus Hofer

Research Location

School of Life and Environmental Sciences

Program Type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

Type I interferons play crucial roles in the host immune response against pathogens such as viruses. Accordingly, defects in the type I interferon system result in impaired antiviral host defence and generalised immunodeficiency. Using the mouse model of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection we are interested in elucidating the molecular mechanisms on how type I interferons stimulate and modulate different aspects of the antiviral immune response. A particular focus of our research is on the role of CD8+ T cells and dendritic cells (DCs).

Additional Information

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

Keywords

interferon; type I interferon; antiviral; immune response; virus; virus infection; LCMV; CD8+ T cell; CD8+ T-cell; immunity; adaptive immunity; dendritic cell; mouse model; transgenic;

Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is: 2705

Other opportunities with Dr Markus Hofer

• TARGETING THE BRAIN VASCULATURE AS A TREATMENT FOR CEREBRAL TYPE I INTERFERONOPATHIES
• THE PATHOGENIC AND PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF MICROGLIA IN CEREBRAL CYTOKINOPATHIES
• HOW DIFFERENT CELL TYPES OF THE BRAIN CONTRIBUTE TO CEREBRAL CYTOKINOPATHIES
• Cumulative modeling of Maternal Immune Activation to assess risk factors of common neurodevelopmental disease
• Maternal autoimmunity increases risk of neurodevelopmental problems in offspring.