Deirdre Murphy

Supervisor: Professor Ziad Mallat

Title: The effects of B cell activating factor (BAFF) on vascular and immune cell biology in Atherosclerosis

Abstract: In addition to innate immune responses, T and B lymphocytes play a role in atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall. BAFF (B cell activating factor) is an essential cytokine for the survival and function of B cells. We hypothesise that excessive BAFF-mediated activation of immune responses contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. This project aims to characterise BAFF production in atherosclerotic mouse models using RT-PCR, ELISA and immuno-histochemistry. We will also utilise transgenic mice to study in detail how BAFF signalling through different receptors may modulate immune cell populations and function leading to the progression of atherosclerosis.