Inflammasomes: molecular drivers of anti-microbial defence (2014-2018)

The innate immune system is the body's first line of defence against infection, but also drives unhealthy inflammation. Families of innate immune receptors, such as Nod-like Receptors, were recently discovered to control both anti-microbial defence and unhealthy inflammation. This research program will characterise the basic biology of Nod-like Receptors at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels, and will thereby lead to a greater understanding of the fundamental biological pathways controlling inflammation and defence against infection. This may ultimately lead to commercial opportunities for treating infection and chronic inflammation.