Defining the role of tumour necrosis factor apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) in experimental visceral leishmaniasis.

树突状细胞（DC）激活病原体特异性T细胞是控制大多数感染的关键步骤，也是许多疫苗策略成功的关键步骤。参与这一过程的特定细胞和分子仍然不清楚。在这个项目中，我们将研究一种称为肿瘤坏死因子相关凋亡诱导配体（TRAIL）的细胞表面分子对DC在杜氏利什曼原虫寄生虫感染期间激活T细胞的能力的影响。通过鉴定表达TRAIL的细胞以及这种分子对病原体免疫力发展的影响，我们将更好地了解产生有效免疫应答所需的因素，从而开发出更好的疫苗。

The activation of pathogen-specific T cells by dendritic cells (DC) is a critical step in the control of most infections, as well as the success of many vaccine strategies. The specific cells and molecules involved in this process are still poorly defined. In this project, we will investigate the effects of a cell surface molecule called tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) on the ability of DC to activate T cells during a parasitic infection caused by Leishmania donovani. By identifying the cells that express TRAIL and the effect that this molecule has on the development of immunity to pathogens, we will better understand the factors required to generate effective immune responses against infectious agents, and hence, develop better vaccines.