Deciphering the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria hijack the neutrophil inhibitory receptor LILRB3 to evade their destruction.

Bacterial infections continue to cause a large number of deaths around the world, and the problem is getting worse as many bacteria become resistant to the antibiotics we rely on. New medications are urgently needed to successfully treat these infections. This project aims to address this need by discovering how certain bacteria are able to “trick” our immune system so that they are not easily destroyed. In particular, we are looking at how they interfere with neutrophils, immune cells that are the first responders in fighting infections. Some bacteria can shut down the signals that neutrophils use to work properly, allowing the infection to spread. By understanding exactly how bacteria do this, we can identify ways to restore these signals and neutrophil antimicrobial defences. This knowledge will help scientists develop new treatments that restore the neutrophil’s ability to kill harmful bacteria and help save lives. This research can only be accomplished by the sharing of expertise between our two research teams which will greatly accelerate discovery by both teams in this field.

Faculty Supervisor:

Maria Fernandes

Student:

Partner:

Imperial College London

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Université Laval

Program: