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The McDonnell Laboratory studies the molecules and molecular interactions that control allergic and inflammatory immune responses. The group uses molecular, structural, biophysical and computational methods to elucidate the mechanisms of pathological immune responses. Based on the understanding of interaction mechanisms, the lab designs and develops inhibitors of molecular interactions, employing structure-based design and library screening approaches.  Inhibitors are used both as investigative tools and developed further as novel immunotherapeutic agents.

People

Anna Marie Davies

Research Fellow

Zihan Liu

PhD student

James McDonnell

Professor of Molecular Immunology

Susan Vester

Research Associate

Projects

Immunoglobulin E
Immunoglobulin E: structure, interactions and allostery

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is the antibody isotype that mediates allergic immune reactions. For many years we have studied the IgE molecule, its three-dimensional structure and its interactions with other molecules. Recently, this work has led to the development of novel anti-IgE drugs for the treatment of allergic disorders.

    scientist looking into microscope
    The structure and function of immunoglobulin D

    Immunoglobulin D (IgD) remains the most enigmatic of all antibody isotypes. Recent evidence indicate activity of IgD in the bronchial mucosa, and potential regulatory roles in allergy.

      Immunoglobulin E
      Interactions of IgE with parasite antigens

      Although IgE is best known for its role in mediating allergic immune responses, its natural role is probably to rapidly rid the body of invading parasites. New research in the lab seeks to better understand the molecular interactions that control IgE-mediated anti-parasite immune responses.

        Publications

          People

          Anna Marie Davies

          Research Fellow

          Zihan Liu

          PhD student

          James McDonnell

          Professor of Molecular Immunology

          Susan Vester

          Research Associate

          Projects

          Immunoglobulin E
          Immunoglobulin E: structure, interactions and allostery

          Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is the antibody isotype that mediates allergic immune reactions. For many years we have studied the IgE molecule, its three-dimensional structure and its interactions with other molecules. Recently, this work has led to the development of novel anti-IgE drugs for the treatment of allergic disorders.

            scientist looking into microscope
            The structure and function of immunoglobulin D

            Immunoglobulin D (IgD) remains the most enigmatic of all antibody isotypes. Recent evidence indicate activity of IgD in the bronchial mucosa, and potential regulatory roles in allergy.

              Immunoglobulin E
              Interactions of IgE with parasite antigens

              Although IgE is best known for its role in mediating allergic immune responses, its natural role is probably to rapidly rid the body of invading parasites. New research in the lab seeks to better understand the molecular interactions that control IgE-mediated anti-parasite immune responses.

                Publications

                  Our Partners

                  UKRI BBSRC logo

                  Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (UKRI)

                  Asthma UK

                  Asthma UK

                  ucb pharma logo

                  UCB Pharma

                  AUK logo

                  Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma