Macrophages, Matrix & Metazoan Parasites Professor Judi Allen (University of Manchester) shares her work on investigating the function of macrophages activated by type 2 cytokines and their role in anti-helminth immunity. Hosted by Dr Cécile Crosnier.

Seminar
This event has now finished.
  • Date and time: Friday 19 April 2024, 1pm to 2pm
  • Location: Dianna Bowles Lecture Theatre, B/K/018, Biology Building, Campus West, University of York (Map)
  • Audience: Open to alumni, staff, students (postgraduate researchers, taught postgraduates, undergraduates)
  • Admission: Free admission, booking not required

Event details

Abstract

Metazoan parasites (helminths) typically induce a ‘type 2’ immune response, which is fundamentally different from the host response to microbial pathogens.  Type 2 immune pathways not only target the parasites but also suppress inflammation and promote extracellular matrix deposition thus limiting the damage caused by these tissue migrating worms.  Macrophages with a distinct type 2 expression profile and are found in high numbers at the site of helminth infection, but also in non-infectious settings such as tissue injury.  By studying macrophages activated by the type 2 immune response during helminth infection, we are discovering new pathways involved in tissue repair.  In particular, the type 2 cytokine IL-13 is implicated in regulating multiple aspects of the extracellular matrix from mucus production to collagen deposition to formation of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) networks. While these responses are host protective during helminth infection, they are major causes of pathology in other disease settings including Covid-19.

About the speaker

Professor Judi Allen

Judi is a Professor of Immunobiology in the Division of Immunology, Immunity to Infection and Respiratory Medicine and in 2016 she joined the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Manchester.  Judi was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2023. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology, a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences and a member of EMBO.

The Allen laboratory investigates the host immune response to parasite infection with a particular focus on type 2 immunity, the response mammals characteristically make to large multicellular parasites (helminths). A major research theme of the lab has been to investigate the function of macrophages activated by type 2 cytokines and their role in anti-helminth immunity.    Prof Allen’s research interests include the relationship of anti-helminth immunity to wound repair pathways, and understanding the challenges faced by the immune system during co-infection with both micro and macroparasites.