Description
Background: Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are fibroblastic precursor cells that have the stem cell-like ability to expand in culture and differentiate into a variety of cell types. MSCs are endowed with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, and are being used in over 500 clinical trials to treat various inflammatory conditions. However, MSCs do not survive for long after infusion, raising the question of how these short-lived cells may exert long-term clinical efficacy. Our research has identified key immune interactions that underlie the therapeutic effects of MSCs.
Project aim/s: This project aims to discover how the immune system impacts on MSC survival, function and therapeutic efficacy. The findings will have broad implications for the future development of MSC-based therapies.
Techniques: This project will utilise techniques applicable to both immunology and stem cell research, including stem cell isolation, cell/tissue culture, multiparameter and imaging flow cytometry, cutting edge gene editing, in vivo bioluminescence imaging, mouse disease models etc.
Essential criteria:
Minimum entry requirements can be found here: https://www.monash.edu/admissions/entry-requirements/minimum
Keywords
mesenchymal stromal cells, cell therapy, cell death, phagocytosis, macrophages
School
Biomedicine Discovery Institute (School of Biomedical Sciences) » Anatomy and Developmental Biology
Available options
PhD/Doctorate
Masters by research
Honours
Time commitment
Full-time
Top-up scholarship funding available
No
Physical location
Clayton Campus
Research webpage
Co-supervisors
Assoc Prof
Daniel Gray
(External)