Discover our research interests
Our research group is interested in a broad range of topics within the fields of neuropathology and immunobiology.
CYTOKINOPATHIES
Cytokinopathies are a group of debilitating diseases that are caused by inappropriate production of cytokines. Examples include Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus and neuromyelitis optica (NMO).
We aim to identify the molecular mechanisms and key cellular targets that underlie cytokinopathies.
maternal immune activation
Pro-inflammatory stimuli such as infection, obesity or stress in mothers (termed maternal immune activation) affect the development of the brain in the fetus and are linked to an increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders including autism and Tourette syndrome.
Using novel mouse models we investigate how maternal immune stimuli affect brain development. We also test the potential of anti-inflammatory drugs in preventing neurodevelopmental disorders, guided by findings from our collaborators at Westmead Children’s Hospital.
INTERFERONS IN VIRUS DEFENCE
As their name suggests, interferons ‘interfere’ with viral replication, preventing an infection from spreading. However, interferons also play an important role in fine tuning the immune response.
Using models such as lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus and zika virus, we investigate how the immune system responds to viruses through interferon signalling.
COLLABORATIONS
From mental health to gut bacteria, the immune system of the brain can have far reaching consequences for the rest of the body.
We use our knowledge and experimental techniques to support a broad range of collaborations across many different aspects of biology.