Award details

Functional studies involving MHC and related genes in selected disease models

Reference	BBS/E/I/00001018
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor Shirley Ellis
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors
Institution	The Pirbright Institute
Department	The Pirbright Institute Department
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	1,176,863
Status	Completed
Type	Institute Project
Start date	01/04/2003
End date	30/06/2009
Duration	75 months

Abstract

Objectives; 1) To complete MHC class I haplotype comparisons, utilising the existing BAC library and class I-containing clones, in order to confirm the mechanisms underlying the observed variation in MHC class I expression. It is planned that this work will be complete in 12 months. 2) To further develop an existing MHC class I typing system for cattle, RSCA. To continue class I typing of calves generated in the MHC inbred herd, using existing methods (SSP-PCR, flow cytometry). 3) To initiate a study of the NK receptor system in cattle. Initial objectives, for which preliminary work will be carried out, include identification of functional NK receptor genes / gene families (e.g. KIRs, Ly49s), and assessment of NK receptor / MHC class I interactions. 4) To continue having an active role in the development of functional studies in selected disease models. This will constitute the main area of work. Emphasis will be placed on M. bovis, BVDV and FMDV, and will involve collaborations with the appropriate groups. The main role of the MHC group will be in the selection and screening of pathogen-derived peptides for binding to particular MHC class I alleles. This is on-going and involves a collaboration with the Jenner Institute. In order to do this effectively, studies will be undertaken that entail peptide elution from class I molecules followed by sequence analysis, and this will utilise the expertise present in the protein chemistry group. This aspect of the work will generate a very detailed knowledge of the peptide binding capabilities and preferences of the class I alleles present within the inbred IAH herd. This work will also involve the generation of class I tetramers where applicable. The MHC group may also have minimal input to the development of functional assays involving peptide identification.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Animal Sciences (AS)
Research Topics	Animal Health, Immunology
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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