Project: Are there additional MAIT cell antigens?
McCluskey group
Our team identified the known natural MAIT cell antigens, small molecule antigens which derive from microbial riboflavin biosynthesis. We seek to further understand how these antigens are produced and whether other antigens exist. We have preliminary data for three projects on MAIT cell antigen discovery that we are happy to discuss in detail in person. Broadly speaking, MAIT cell antigen discovery involves in vitro cell line model systems, human blood cell assays, flow cytometry, microbial culture and our proven protein-folding/mass-spectrometry approach.
Contact project supervisor for further
information and application enquiries
McCluskey group
4 vacancies
The McCluskey group is an internationally-leading laboratory in mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cell research, having made significant breakthrough discoveries in MAIT cell immunity. These include identifying the antigens recognised by MAIT cells and the associated development of tetramers to characterise MAIT cells (patented). The McCluskey group has also developed human in vitro and in vivo models to understand MAIT cell function and the role of MAIT cells as part of the immune system. In addition, the group has deep expertise in biochemistry, including MAIT cell ligand discovery by mass spectrometry and cellular immunology, allowing to comprehensively address big picture research questions.
McCluskey group Current Projects
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Understanding the role of MAIT cells in protection from microbial infections
PhD/MPhil, Master of Biomedical Science, Honours
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Understanding the role of MAIT cells in immune-mediated pathology
PhD/MPhil, Master of Biomedical Science, Honours
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Are there additional MAIT cell antigens?
PhD/MPhil, Master of Biomedical Science, Honours
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Manipulating MAIT cells for increased protection by vaccination and therapy
PhD/MPhil, Master of Biomedical Science, Honours
Research degrees at the Doherty Institute are administered by the University of Melbourne.