Elucidation of molecular mechanisms that activate the MyD88 signalling network

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are critical components of the innate immune system that are used for defence against bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. Their activation leads to the production of inflammatory mediators that mount responses to fight infection and promote tissue repair. Nearly all TLRs signal via the adaptor protein MyD88, and the goal of Professor Cohen’s research is to elucidate the MyD88 signalling network in molecular detail. This is critical for the development of our understanding of how the production of inflammatory mediators is regulated, why defects in this system lead to immunodeficiency, chronic inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, and to identify pathway components that are targets for therapeutic intervention.