Enzo Cerundolo: The Human Immunology Unit
The increasing globalisation of infectious disease is a major challenge to human health. The MRC Human Immunology Unit is a key player in international efforts to combat this threat, and in research into other diseases involving the immune system.
The immune system is crucial to human health. Our ability to identify and destroy invading pathogens involves complex networks of interacting cells and molecules. Understanding precisely how the system works at the cellular, genetic and molecular levels will help in the development of new therapies for diseases such as AIDS, avian flu, multiple sclerosis, arthritis and eczema.
Vincenzo Cerundolo
Cancer immunotherapy
Professor Vincenzo Cerundolo is an immunologist based at the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine. With the aim of developing better treatment strategies for cancer patients, Professor Cerundolo is working to gain a better understanding of the cell-to-cell interplay required for optimal expansion and activation of tumour-specific T cell populations. Professor Cerundolo’s laboratory is divided into three complementary areas, including: the analysis of tumour-specific immune responses in melanoma patients and the role of the tumour micro-environment in hampering tumour-specific immune responses; the structural, kinetic and functional analyses of invariant NKT (iNKT) cell activation; and a clinical trial vaccine programme in melanoma patients.
Professor Cerundolo's group is part of the Radcliffe Department of Medicine.
Translational Medicine
From Bench to Bedside
Ultimately, medical research must translate into improved treatments for patients. At the Nuffield Department of Medicine, our researchers collaborate to develop better health care, improved quality of life, and enhanced preventative measures for all patients. Our findings in the laboratory are translated into changes in clinical practice, from bench to bedside.