DNA Sensing controls immune balance in chronic conditions
Chronic inflammation generates damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) such as DNA that impact immune responses. DNA is sensed to activate the Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) adaptor which may stimulate or suppress immunity. In some cancer models DNA suppresses anti-tumour immunity to promote tumour growth by inducing indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO). STING agonists enhance anti-tumour immunity but fail to control tumour growth unless immune checkpoints are also disrupted. DNA sensing pathways can also be exploited to attenuate autoimmunity in several models of clinical autoimmune syndromes. Hence, STING agonists can be used to manipulate immune balance in a range of chronic conditions.
Date: 10 February 2020, 12:00 (Monday, 4th week, Hilary 2020)
Venue: Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Headington OX3 7FY
Venue Details: Bernard Sunley Lecture Theatre
Speaker: Professor Andrew Mellor (Newcastle University)
Organising department: Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS)
Organisers: Jennifer Pope (Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology), Professor Irina Udalova (Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology)
Organiser contact email address: jennifer.pope@kennedy.ox.ac.uk
Host: Dr Richard Williams (Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology)
Part of: Kennedy Institute Seminars
Booking required?: Not required
Audience: Public
Editor: Jennifer Pope