Student research project
Supervisor(s): Dr Tin Kyaw and Professor Alex Bobik
Atherogenic autoantibodies in heart attacks.
Project summary
Even with aggressive preventive measures, the risk of fatal recurrence following an initial myocardial infarction (MI) remains significantly elevated for many years, resulting in a 65% death rate within 8 years.
Alarmingly, fatal recurrent MIs contribute to 40% of all MI-related mortality globally. Research suggests that MI-accelerated plaque inflammation is a critical contributing factor. However, clinical trials using systemic anti-inflammatory medications have not reduced the risk; instead, they often compromise the immune system. Currently, no effective therapeutic strategies are available to reduce the incidence of fatal recurrence in MI survivors.
Our approach builds on the novel discovery that "atherogenic autoantibodies, which gradually develop against lesion autoantigens, can be escalated in response to MI, thereby increasing the risk of recurrence." Supporting evidence comes not only from preliminary results but also from vaccine immunology, where "a booster dose expands the humoral immune memory previously established, thus providing enhanced protection."
Therapeutically, we will explore a novel strategy targeting the significant yet overlooked expansion of established immune memory in response to injury-released autoantigens. Mechanistically, we will identify the most relevant plaque autoantigens and investigate the expansion of established immune memory. Additionally, we will develop diagnostic test kits to identify high-risk patients for close monitoring and aggressive treatment.
Related methods, skills or technologies
This project will expose you to numerous skills and technologies, including:
- animal models
- cell culture
- flowcytometry
- human research
- imaging
- immunocytochemistry
- interventions
- molecular biology
- PCR
- proteomics.
This project is suitable for a Masters, Honours or PhD student.