Final Report Summary - SREBP1C_FN_CTL (Characterising the role of mammalian Target Of Rapamcyin Complex 1 (mTORC1)/Srebp1c signaling in directing the differentiation and function of T lymphocytes)
glycolysis is sufficient to inhibit IFNgamma production and granzyme B expression. This study provides the highly novel insight that mTORC1-mediated metabolic reprogramming of NK cells is a prerequisite for the acquisition of normal effector functions. This work was published in Journal of Immunology in 2014 (PMID:25261477)
Our on going work is currently further characterising the link between mTORC1 regulated NK cell metabolism and NK cells function and the elucidating molecular mechanisms involved. We have discovered key roles for cMyc and Srebp, but not HIF1alpha, in controlling NK cell glucose metabolism and function. These results are being compiled into 2 manuscripts that will be submitted for consideration at a high impact journals by the end of 2016.
Another key objective of this CIG grant was to fully integrate into the research environment at Trinity College Dublin. This objective has been fully realized since the start of this grant. The CIG award has facilitated the establishment of a research group that included 7 PhD students and 1 postdoctoral research scientist. This has been achieved through securing additional funding from national funding agencies. I have published a number of research articles including 2 articles in the Journal of Immunology as senior and corresponding author. I have also been invited to write an number of review articles on the area of immunometabolism for high impact journals including the Journal of Clinical Investigation (5 review articles published, 2015-2016). Therefore, with the help of this Marie Curie Career integration grant I have successfully established a research group in Trinity College Dublin and this research is producing key outputs in the form of research articles in high impact and respected journals.