Project description

Interferons (IFNs) are host-derived, broad-spectrum, anti-viral cytokines induced naturally in the body during a viral infection. The type I and type III IFNs are two distinct families of proteins together orchestrating protection of the human body from viral infections. The type I IFNs utilise ubiquitously expressed receptors, giving these IFNs broad cellular activity but the potential for systemic toxicity.

The type III IFNs bind a unique receptor which displays limited cellular distribution on epithelial cells, giving the type III IFNs display targeted effects on a small number of cell-types. Our project is investigating and comparing the differential role of IFNs in various cell types important for protection from viral infection. We utilise a blend of transcriptomics and proteomics to understand the effect of IFNs on cells.