Investigation of hypoxia-sensing mechanisms in immune regulation

Our immune system responds to infections while remaining tolerant towards our own cells. This equilibrium is maintained when we are healthy. However, if this mechanism breaks down, it can result in an immune imbalance and the inability to respond appropriately to infections and tumours and the development of autoimmune disease. The factors responsible for this balance are not yet fully understood but may be related to the way T cells respond to low levels of oxygen. 

I will use genetically altered cells that behave as if they are in a low oxygen environment. Studying the way these cells perform will provide valuable insight into diseases of immune dysfunction and open the possibility for manipulating immune cells to produce better outcomes for patients with transplants, autoimmune diseases, and possibly cancer.