Analysis of microRNA function in B lymphocytes

Abstracts are not currently available in GtR for all funded research. This is normally because the abstract was not required at the time of proposal submission, but may be because it included sensitive information such as personal details.

B lymphocytes are a type of white blood cells. They provide long term immunity following disease or vaccination, being therefore essential for normal health. Deregulation of B lymphocytes may lead to autoimmune diseases or cancer. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanisms of B cell differentiation (specialisation) is an important priority. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a recently discovered type of molecule increasingly recognised as being essential for many biological processes. Until recently, nothing has been known on the role of specific microRNAs in B lymphocyte differentiation, but it is anticipated that microRNAs will be shown to be important regulators of B cell function. In this regard, I have observed that one microRNA, miR-155, regulates important functions of B cells necessary for antibody secretion. In order to fight infection, B lymphocytes make antibodies to recognise foreign pathogens. This project is designed to gain a better understanding of how miR-155 and other microRNAs work. MicroRNA expression (production) is altered in cancer and it is likely that in the future pharmaceutical companies will target them. The knowledge obtained from my proposed work will provide insights into a new mechanism regulating lymphocyte differentiation which in the long term may impact on the design of therapies for treatment of human diseases.

unavailable