Team
Pregnancy and Early Life Immunology projects
Reports and Findings
Potential immunological effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender people – an unexplored area of research
There are well-described sex-based differences in how the immune system operates. In particular, cisgender (cis) females have a more easily activated immune system; associated with an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases and adverse events following vaccinations. Conversely, cis males have a higher threshold for immune activation, and are more prone to certain infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Published research Immunisation Pregnancy and Early Life Immunology Gender Diversity Youth Mental Health COVID-19 Immune systemEpstein–Barr virus infection, B-cell dysfunction and other risk factors converge in gut-associated lymphoid tissue to drive the immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis: a hypothesis
Multiple sclerosis is associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, B-cell dysfunction, gut dysbiosis, and environmental and genetic risk factors, including female sex.
Published research Infectious Diseases Pregnancy and Early Life Immunology InflammationTissue-resident memory T cells in the era of (Neo) adjuvant melanoma management
Tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells have emerged as key players in the immune control of melanoma. These specialized cells are identified by expression of tissue retention markers such as CD69, CD103 and CD49a with downregulation of egress molecules such as Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor-1 (S1PR1) and the lymphoid homing receptor, CD62L.
Published research Pregnancy and Early Life Immunology Sarcoma Translational ResearchAllies or enemies? The effect of regulatory T cells and related T lymphocytes on the profibrotic environment in bleomycin-injured lung mouse models
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by permanent scarring of lung tissue and declining lung function, and is an incurable disease with increase in prevalence over the past decade.
Published research Pregnancy and Early Life Immunology