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Infection, Immunity & Inflammation Interdisciplinary Research Group

About the I3 IRG

The I3 IRG undertakes internationally-recognised research to understand the immune system. This system protects the body against infection and disease, but can also cause disease when it goes awry. Our research aims to develop new vaccines and treatments for diseases such as AIDS, arthritis, flu and cancer.

Through interdisciplinary collaborations across the School, the University and beyond, the group's focus on research and treatment strategies seeks to link high quality laboratory-based research with translational, cross-disciplinary clinical applications.

Research focus

Research within I3 is focused on four main themes:

Latest highlights

T cell interacting with a dendritic cell

The immune system in action: electron microscopy shows a T cell (top) on the hunt for viruses. Our work in Cellular and Molecular Immunology advances understanding of these critical interactions, and prepares the way for new medical treatments.

Key recent publications

  • Varela-Rohena et al. Control of HIV-1 immune escape by CD8 T cells expressing enhanced T-cell receptor. Nat Med 2008. Advanced On-line Publication.
  • Bull et al. The Death Receptor 3–TNF-like protein 1A pathway drives adverse bone pathology in inflammatory arthritis. J Exp Med 2008; 205:2457-2464
  • Humphreys IR et al. Cytomegalovirus exploits IL-10-mediated immune regulation in the salivary glands. J Exp Med 2007; 204:1217-25.
  • Taylor PR, et al. Dectin-1 is required for β-glucan recognition and control of fungal infection. Nat Immunol 2007; 8: 31-38.

Activities

The group engages in many activities designed to bring together researchers. These include a seminar program and an annual meeting that encourages junior staff to present research in an informal setting. We also hold themed meetings covering topics such as translational research and cancer immunology.

Training and studentships

The group currently funds eight doctoral studentships. One of the key aims of the IRG is to train the next generation of researchers, to provide a supportive environment for intellectual and personal development.

Collaboration and funding

Members of the IRG collaborate at three levels; within the IRG, within the University and internationally. A recent £10.6 million award from the Healing Foundation for Burns Research illustrates the benefits of our multi-disciplinary collaborative approach.

Innovation and Engagement

Several members of the IRG are involved in commercial development of new treatments based on their research. Members also play an active role in engagement with the public through the annual Science in Health open day.