Immunity and microbiome
The immune system protects the host against dangerous microbes, limits the growth of tumours and promotes tissue repair. Research in this theme examines how the immune system recognises these threats and how it responds. We are also interested in the mutually beneficial relationship between the immune system and microbes that live in the gut and other body surfaces, including how these microbes control immune cell development and function. These studies help us understand the causes and treatment of autoimmune disease and guide new ways to use the immune system to fight infection or cancer.