This research investigates how HIV disrupts the developing immune system in early life. Using a baby monkey model of HIV infection, the study identifies immune signals that either promote or limit infection spread. The findings could guide new immune-targeted therapies that improve survival and long-term outcomes for children living with HIV.

This research develops a novel PEG-free lipid nanoparticle for gene therapy. Unlike conventional nanoparticles, which trigger immune responses after repeated use, the new formulation remains stable without PEG and performs even better. The approach could enable safer repeat dosing, improve treatment effectiveness, and expand access to life-changing gene therapies.

This research reveals how Streptococcus evades immune attack by shedding its hair-like surface proteins, distracting immune cells while provoking excessive immune activation. The findings provide a new explanation for how recurrent strep infections can trigger autoimmune diseases and suggest treatments should target both the bacteria and the immune response.

This thesis examines cytokine release storm, where the immune system becomes dangerously overactive. Using rat models, mathematical modelling, science and coding, she maps how corticosteroids move through organs and control inflammation. The goal is to optimise treatment for CRS during cancer therapy, COVID or future pandemics.

This research explores asthma by recreating lung airways using 3D bioprinting. By simulating low-oxygen conditions and imaging structural changes, it investigates how exaggerated immune responses narrow airways. These models enable detailed study of disease mechanisms and offer a platform to develop treatments, ultimately advancing efforts toward preventing or curing asthma.

Despite major advances in medicine, wound care has changed little in a century. This research explores how natural electrical signals in injured skin guide healing. By developing devices that mimic these signals, scientists aim to accelerate recovery and improve treatment for chronic wounds through bioelectric control of cellular behaviour.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) causes severe breathing failure and kills tens of thousands annually, yet has no effective treatment. This research studies how ARDS disrupts lung surfactant, a critical stabilizing substance in the lungs. By identifying immune-related factors that damage surfactant, the work aims to develop the first targeted therapeutic cure.

This talk presents a new noninvasive MRI method to visualize the brain’s immune response. By imaging inflammation without injections or contrast agents, the research offers new insights into Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, and traumatic brain injury, helping researchers better understand how brain inflammation contributes to neurological disorders.

This research explores how mast cells—immune cells responsible for allergy symptoms—can be repurposed to strengthen vaccines. By targeting mast cells with nasal vaccines, stronger and longer-lasting immune responses may be generated, particularly benefiting high-risk populations and improving protection against infectious diseases.

Tuberculosis remains deadly despite relying on decades-old antibiotics. This research uses computational methods to identify immune response similarities between TB and other diseases, enabling drug repurposing. By borrowing already approved treatments, this approach aims to restore immune balance, combat drug resistance, and accelerate the development of new TB therapies.