Antiviral functions of the novel inflammatory cytokine IL-36G

Summary You will use cell culture systems and gene knockout mice to investigate how IL-36G prevents infection by viruses. The new knowledge you create will help us to develop better ways to treat diseases caused by viruses.

Project Details

The oral cavity is a major entry portal for important microbial pathogens, including viruses. We have demonstrated that the epithelial cells which line the oral cavity strongly express the novel inflammatory cytokine IL-36G when they detect the presence of microbes. Importantly, we have recently found that IL-36G stimulates epithelial cells to express genes that mediate antiviral responses. This suggests that IL-36G plays a role in preventing viral infection. In this project you will use cell culture systems and gene knockout mice to investigate how IL-36G prevents infection by viruses. The project will provide opportunities to develop skills in mammalian cell culture, manipulating gene expression, cytokine assays, analysis of cell signalling and gene expression, immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, critical thinking, scientific writing, and oral communication.