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Odendall Group

The Odendall group studies the interactions between the innate immune system and pathogens. We are particularly interested in a family of immune mediators called type I and III interferons and how they may protect against enteric bacteria such as Salmonella and Shigella.

We found that the normally antiviral cytokines type I and III interferons are strongly induced in response to bacterial infection in vitro and in vivo. We are seeking to understand what their antibacterial functions are, and how pathogenic bacteria may interfere with their signalling or functions.

Members

Charlotte Odendall

Charlotte Odendall

Sir Henry Dale Fellow

Andrew Voak

Research Associate

p1odendall

Cell biological aspects of antibacterial functions of IFNs

Type III interferons are emerging as crucial regulators of immunity at barrier sites. Using polarized epithelial cell models, we found that type III interferon treatment tightens the epithelial barrier and protects them against infection with the bacteria Salmonella and Shigella. We wish to determine the cellular mechanisms that enable this protection. We also find that interferons block bacterial infection of epithelial cells in vitro. We are carrying out screens to identify the ISGs responsible for this effect.

p2odendall

Effects of IFNs on bacterial pathogenesis in vivo

Our preliminary data suggests that type III interferons protect against Salmonella infection in vivo. Using different mouse infection models, we seek to determine the potential antibacterial functions of type I and III interferons.

p3odendall

Inhibition of interferon regulation and signalling by Shigella and Salmonella virulence factors

Pathogens almost always evolve mechanisms to counteract efficient immune processes. We have identified that Shigella blocks both expression and signalling by interferons using effectors of their T3SS. We are carrying out screens to identify the effectors responsible and the host mechanisms they target.

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  • Sir Henry Dale Fellowship

Our partners

Royal Society

Wellcome Trust

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