Deciphering local and systemic immune responses in cardiac disease.

The role of immune cells in cardiac diseases, including coronary artery disease (CAD) calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), and following acute myocardial infarction remains poorly understood. We are particularly interested in the role of adaptive immune cells (T and B cells) in cardiac disease. To study this, we analyse immune cells isolated from the cardiac tissues of patients using state-of-the-art technologies, assessing their enrichment, activation and location in health and disease. In doing so, we are explore the idea that common heart diseases may be caused by autoimmune mechanisms. This project provides an exciting opportunity for a motivated and industrious student with early clinical experience to collaborate closely with the Cardiology and Cardiothoracic surgery units at The Alfred Hospital to recruit participants and collect clinical samples. In concert, the student will work under supervision of immunologists and cardiovascular scientists at The Baker Institute to support the analysis of these samples using complementary techniques such as flow cytometry, single cell RNA sequencing and histology. This project has the potential to provide a both clinical exposure and research experience in cardiovascular medicine and science. The student will also have the opportunity to collaborate on publications and conference abstracts arising from the project.