Developing an Autoimmune Encephalitis Model Using Active Immunisation

Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a severe neurological disorder caused by pathogenic autoantibodies that disrupt synaptic signalling and drive inflammation within the central nervous system (CNS). Despite its clinical importance, the mechanisms that initiate and sustain CNS‑resident antibody responses remain poorly understood. This project aims to establish and characterise a preclinical model of AE using active immunisation with disease‑relevant antigens, enabling controlled investigation of how autoreactive B cells and plasma cells arise, mature, and persist in the CNS. The goal is to generate a robust, reproducible model that captures key features of human autoimmune encephalitis. Using this system, the project will explore: -- How pathogenic plasma cells enter and persist within the CNS and its border tissues -- How autoantibodies disrupt neuronal function and contribute to neurological symptoms -- Which immune pathways could be targeted to prevent or reverse disease AE is treatable, but current therapies are broad, slow, and often ineffective for patients with long‑standing disease. A well‑defined immunisation‑based model provides a powerful platform to dissect the biology of CNS‑resident plasma cells, understand how autoantibodies gain access to the brain, and enable the testing of new therapeutic strategies aimed at eliminating pathogenic antibody production. Depending on your level (Honours, Masters, PhD), the project may include: -- Flow cytometry and immune phenotyping -- B‑cell and plasma‑cell fate mapping -- CNS tissue processing and imaging -- Behavioural and neuroimmune readouts -- RNA‑seq and BCR repertoire analysis Who this project suits: Students interested in immunology and neuroimmunology with curiosity and passion for exploring new fields of research.