Harnessing innate immunity to combat microbial infection: The case of STAT transcription factors

这个博士项目是基于我们最近发现的STAT转录因子在哺乳动物免疫系统中起作用的新机制。我们正计划将研究结果应用于禽类免疫。该学生将描述鸡STAT蛋白新发现机制的分子细节，并探索它们如何有助于宿主防御细胞内细菌和病毒。我们将使用重组蛋白、质谱分析和其他尖端的生化和生物物理方法来鉴定在这种经济上重要的鸟类先天免疫系统中调节STAT蛋白功能的关键蛋白质相互作用。

This PhD project is based on our recent discovery of a new mechanism by which STAT transcription factors function in the mammalian immune system. We are planning to translate the findings to avian immunity. The student will characterise the molecular details of the new-found mechanism in chicken STAT proteins and explore how they contribute to host defence against intracellular bacteria and viruses. We will use recombinant proteins, mass spectrometry, and other cutting edge biochemical and biophysical methods to identify critical protein interactions that regulate STAT protein functioning in the innate immune system of this economically important bird.