Award details

MHC directed T cell responses

Reference	BBS/E/R/04780614
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor Elizabeth Glass
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors
Institution	The Roslin Institute
Department	The Roslin Institute Department
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	266,711
Status	Completed
Type	Institute Project
Start date	01/04/1997
End date	31/03/1998
Duration	12 months

Abstract

Polymorphism of MHC class II gene products determines CD4+ T cell responses to antigens. The resultant variation in immune responsiveness may underlie differences in disease resistance and influence the effectiveness of subunit vaccines. The project aims to investigate how different MHC products of an outbred, agriculturally relevant species, cattle, determine susceptibility or protection. Individual MHC genes are cloned and transfected into cells (see 40780613) for antigen presentation to T cells and peptide binding studies using model antigens eg a putative vaccinal peptide derived from foot-and-mouth disease virus. Predictions based on these studies will be tested by measuring immune responsiveness in MHC homozygous cattle and mice transgenic for bovine MHC genes. The benefits of this research include a clear understanding of how molecular interactions lead to effective immune responses in the whole animal. A number of collaborators (>10), both national and international are involved. This integrative approach crosses the boundaries between Biomolecular Sciences (molecular recognition), Animal Sciences (improved animal health and quality, reducing the dependence on antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals) and ASD (understanding mechanisms of pathogenesis that must underpin the design of novel/improved vaccines). The project is thus particularly relevant to Technology Foresight recommendations in integrating molecular biology and genetics with cell biology and whole organisms. Potential exploitation resulting from this work includes improving animal health by genetic means as well as providing information essential for rational vaccine design. The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II gene products control CD4+ T cell responses to antigens. The aim of this project is to investigate the role of the MHC in generating protective immunity in an outbred species, cattle, to pathogen derived antigens. Although many of these proteins are immunogenic, they do not necessarily induce protection. These studies are aimed at investigating how the interplay between MHC/T cells/B cells can result in effective immunity. The project will concentrate on T cell responses to peptides derived from foot-and-mouth disease. MHC homozygous cattle will be produced, expressing specific MHC alleles identified in earlier projects, as important in focusing T cells to defined epitopes. T cell responses to these epitopes will be correlated with B cell responses and types of cytokines produced.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Animal Sciences (AS)
Research Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
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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