The main focus of the Immunology unit is the role of immune system in the development of Bone Marrow Failure (BMF) syndromes and the interaction between the immune system and malignant clones. We have shown the importance of CD4+ T cells namely Tregs and Th17 components in the pathogenesis of MDS and AA as well as the transformation of an inflammatory environment of low risk disease to a more suppressive/ dysfunctional immune response in high risk disease.The research program is composed of two integrated themes:

• The mechanisms of ineffective immune-response and immune escape in high risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) which leads to disease transformation to acute Leukaemia and the study of autoimmune response in low risk MDS / Aplastic Anaemia (AA).
• The role of persistent inflammation in acquiring genetic mutations and subsequent disease progression.

We use Flowcytometry (both conventional and mass cytometry (CyTOF)) as the primary methods to identify specific immune signatures for the prediction of disease progression and response to immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory treatments. We are also investigating the off target effects of non-immunomodulatory medication on immune system in BMF. Integrated with molecular tools that target immune signaling pathways, we are looking  for potential therapeutic applications.

We are also working on different cell therapy strategies (i.e. in vitro expansion of Tregs) to reintroduce a balance immune response in low risk MDS and AA and prevent proliferation pressure and reduce the risk of acquired genetic mutation and disease progression while maintaining an effective immune surveillance against malignant clones