Crohn\u2019s is an inflammatory bowel disease that results from a breakdown in the immune system\u2019s ability to recognize the intestine microflora as \u2018self\u2019. Genetic factors that function in innate immune pathways predispose to developing Crohn\u2019s disease. A better understanding at the molecular level might help us develop better immunotherapies.
\n \n\n \n \nAutoimmune diseases can lead to the loss of function of specific organs - such as rheumatoid arthritis and early on-set diabetes - or to systemic autoimmune diseases where the whole body is attacked. A better understanding of how the immune system is formed and regulated could help us design new treatments.
\n \n\n \n \nThe gastrointestinal tract is home to more bacteria than there are cells in our body. Our immune system needs to maintain a strong and effective immune response towards pathogenic bacteria, whilst maintaining tolerance towards commensal bacteria that have a function within the gut. A better understanding of these mechanisms can improve our treatment options.
\n \n\n \n \nOur guts are home to trillions of intestinal bacteria and more immune cells than anywhere else in our bodies. Investigating the relationship between the two is vital as a breakdown can lead to diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and bowel cancer, and is also linked to type 2 diabetes and obesity.
\n \n\n \n \nMen who have sex with men (MSM) are a stigmatised group in Africa, but a predominant actor in the transmission of HIV. Recognising this vulnerability and developing better prevention programmes targeted to this population will ultimately reduce the wider public health impact of HIV epidemic.
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