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Research

Critical role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in regulating gene expression and innate immune responses to human rhinovirus-16

Though HRVs are usually innocuous viruses, they can trigger serious consequences in certain individuals, especially in the setting of IFN synthesis.

Research

The effects of in utero vitamin D deficiency on airway smooth muscle mass and lung function

In this study, we aimed to uncover the molecular mechanisms contributing to altered lung structure and function.

Research

IRF7-Associated Immunophenotypes Have Dichotomous Responses to Virus/Allergen Coexposure and OM-85-Induced Reprogramming

High risk for virus-induced asthma exacerbations in children is associated with an IRF7lo immunophenotype, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, we applied a Systems Biology approach to an animal model comprising rat strains manifesting high versus low susceptibility to experimental asthma, induced by virus/allergen coexposure, to elucidate the mechanism(s)-of-action of the high-risk asthma immunophenotype.

Research

Demographic and clinical predictors of vitamin D status in pregnant women tested for deficiency in Western Australia

This study aimed to describe the vitamin D status of pregnant women in Western Australia and identify predictors of deficiency in pregnancy. A cross-sectional study was conducted using linked data from statewide administrative data collections.

Research

Circulating Memory B Cells in Early Multiple Sclerosis Exhibit Increased IgA+ Cells, Globally Decreased BAFF-R Expression and an EBV-Related IgM+ Cell Signature

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that results in demyelination of axons, inefficient signal transmission and reduced muscular mobility. Recent findings suggest that B cells play a significant role in disease development and pathology. To further explore this, B cell profiles in peripheral blood from 28 treatment-naive patients with early MS were assessed using flow cytometry and compared to 17 healthy controls.

Research

Developing an Online Tool to Promote Safe Sun Behaviors With Young Teenagers as Co-researchers

Despite education about the risks of excessive sun exposure, teenagers in Australia are sun-seeking, with sunburn common in summer. Conversely, some regular (time-limited) exposure to sunlight (that avoids sunburn) is necessary for vitamin D and healthy bones and other molecules important for immune and metabolic health. New interventions are thus required to better support teenagers to make healthy and balanced decisions about their sun behaviors.

Research

Short-term changes in frequencies of circulating leukocytes associated with narrowband UVB phototherapy in people with clinically isolated syndrome

Since B cells are increasingly targeted by MS therapies, the effects of narrowband UVB phototherapy in people with MS should be investigated further

Research

Cellular and molecular mechanisms of vitamin D in food allergy

Epidemiological evidence from the past decade suggests a role of vitamin D in food allergy pathogenesis

Research

PGE2 pulsing of murine bone marrow cells reduces migration of daughter monocytes/macrophages in vitro and in vivo

Our results reveal long-lasting changes to progenitor cells of monocytes/macrophages by a 2-hour dimethyl PGE2 pulse that, in turn, limits the migration of their daughter cells to chemoattractants and inflammatory mediators.