Eosinophil Biology Laboratory

Laboratory Head: Dr. Lindsay Dent

Our work is focused on the cellular and molecular events of immunity in both health and disease. Most immune responses are well balanced and regulated, but disease and tissue damage can result when control mechanisms fail or are subverted by pathogens. We investigate inflammatory processes that protect against microbes but which are also involved in the normal development and remodelling of tissues. When these mechanisms are poorly regulated, tissues may be damaged and lose functionality. We have particular interest in the roles of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell or leukocyte.  We have developed experimental models of major diseases in humans and livestock species. Our studies include analyses of (i) immune responses to tissue-invasive parasitic worms, (ii) allergic asthma, (iii) evasion strategies used by parasites to avoid immune destruction, (iv) molecules produced by parasites as potential therapeutic agents in the control of inflammation, (v) the involvement of leukocytes in reproduction and the development and repair of tissues, (vi) eosinophils as effectors of anti-tumour immunity (vii) transplantation immunology.  Honours and postgraduate students have and continue to make substantial contributions to our research and have often been rewarded with research publications.