Innate-like T cells and integration of host defence

The human immune system in tissues such as the liver, lung and gut is enriched for "unconventional" immune cells with distinct functions. My group has uncovered some of these functions recently and they include a strong response to virus infections - which can be critical for protection - and a role in repairing tissues. Apart from a major role during acute infections (e.g. we find very strong responses in Covid-19) one of the most exciting findings is that such activity can improve immune responses to vaccines. We focused on one easily identified group of cells (MAITs), but found similar functions in related cells, suggesting there are groups of cells acting as teams. In this study we want to find out how these cells work to provide this critical boost to vaccines and to host defence - activities which are relevant to so many major health threats today.