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Content archived on 2024-04-30

Definition of local anti-mycobacterial immune responses - a novel approach for the assessment of candidate vaccines against tuberculosis

Objective



Research objectives and content Human and bovine TB are important problems. BCG vaccination has been used to combat human disease and is under consideration for control of animal disease. However, BCG has been unreliable in some circumstances and new vaccines are required urgently. Logical vaccine development requires precise understanding of protective immunity. Previous studies have often used unnatural modes of disease, or have ignored the crucial immune events at the site of infection/immunization. It is the objective of this study to apply the latest technology to define the local immune responses which occur in a natural model of TB in cattle. Surgical procedures will be used to harvest lymphatic T-cells after stimulation of local anti-TB immunity. Molecular immunological techniques and flow cytometry will be used to assess the function and classification of these cells in precise detail. This information will allow comparison of local responses to TB and any candidate vaccine. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) A primary objective is to provide training in all aspects of current immunological research (flow cytometry, lymphocyte functions, molecular immunology, Iymphatic cannulation etc.). Benefits of the training will be a researcher with very broad experience and potential to have considerable impact on TB research (considered of high priority in the EU). The benefits and impact from this proposal will include the development of a local model of infection which will be a valuable tool for assessment of novel candidate vaccines. The project will provide an increased understanding of both human and bovine tuberculosis. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

Data not available

Funding Scheme

RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)

Coordinator

THE QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY OF BELFAST
EU contribution
No data
Address
Stoney Road , Stormont
BT4 3SD BELFAST
United Kingdom
Total cost
No data