Identification of novel immunomodulators from Heligmosomoides bakeri

Parasitic worms make molecules that block their hosts immune responses, leading to chronic infections. The molecules, called immunomodulators, block immune responses to the worms themselves and have more general effects on the immune system. A small number have been characterised and can interfere with different immune pathways. Research is ongoing to develop them for managing diseases where the immune system is dysregulated such as in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which affects over 300,000 Canadians but has limited treatment options.
I will synthetize and screen proteins produced by the parasite Heligmosomoides bakeri, to identify new immunomodulators. The Finney lab (UCalgary) has created a set of ‘omic’ tools to characterise the genes expressed in H. bakeri. Using these tools, I have created a list of putative immunomodulators. The McSorley lab (University of Dundee) are experts at producing and screening parasitic worm proteins for potential immunomodulatory function. During my visit, I will produce and test my curated list. I will return to the Finney lab to set up and test the McSorley lab assays, creating an immunomodulator discovery pipeline in Canada. My research has the potential to generate innovative, effective therapies for patients with dysregulated immune responses, strengthening Canada’s role in immunotherapy development.

Faculty Supervisor:

Constance Finney

Student:

Partner:

University of Dundee

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Calgary

Program: