Exploiting immunoreceptor regulation for immunity

Abstract

Dendritic cells (DCs) are critical for the activation of immune responses. As such, there is a lot of interest in understanding their biology so they can be more easily exploited for improved immune responses to vaccines. This thesis has interrogated two key molecules necessary for the generation and function of DCs – FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3) and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II). It is well established that the number of DCs in normal and malignant tissues is reliant on the Flt3/Flt3 ligand (Flt3L) signaling cascade. Therefore, manipulation of this pathway is an attractive solution to improve immune outcomes. Currently, clinical strategies rely upon administratio..