ASI NEWS MARCH 2020
CONTACT US 10 26 AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND SOCIETY FOR DERRICK ROWLEY MEDAL VISIT FROM PROF. IMMUNOLOGY INC. ASI HONOURS SUSANNE STEVEN ALBELDA ASI INC. SECRETARIAT HEINZEL AND ALAN BAXTER FROM UNIVERSITY OF PO BOX 1371, PENNSYLVANIA MITCHAM NORTH 3132 CONNIE JACKAMAN PH: 03 8393 9388 ALEC REDWOOD immunology.org.au/contact-us CONTENTS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
CONTENTS
PRESIDENT’S COLUMN...... 3 SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP NEWS...... 20 John Fraser Helen McGuire
A COUNTRY, A COMMUNITY NOOSA THROUGH THE MUCOSA AND BURNING BRIGHT...... 4 MICROBIOME ...... 21 Angelica Lau Jonatan Leffler
ASI MEETING HIGHLIGHTS...... 5 LET’S TALK ABOUT EDUCATION IN IMMUNOLOGY ...... 23 HELLO FROM YOUR NEW Samy Sakkal HON. SECRETARY...... 7 Connie Jackaman UPCOMING VISITING SPEAKERS IN 2020...... 25 Stuart Mannering 2019 TREASURER’S REPORT...... 7 Asolina Braun PROF. STEVEN ALBELDA FROM UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA VISITS ASI COMMUNITY...... 26 CTI SPECIAL FEATURES...... 8 Alec Redwood DERRICK ROWLEY MEDAL HONORS ITA - 2019 ASI ANNUAL MEETING, ADELAIDE, SUSANNE HEINZEL & ALAN BAXTER...... 10 AUSTRALIA ...... 28 Connie Jackaman Amania A. Sheikh THE IUIS CORNER...... 11 ITA - 2019 ASI ANNUAL MEETING, ADELAIDE, J. Alejandro Lopez AUSTRALIA ...... 30 THE 20/20 WOMEN’S INITIATIVE Andrew Highton FOR ASI...... 12 ITA - TUMOR IMMUNOLOGY & IMMUNOTHERAPY Kylie Quinn CONFERENCE, BOSTON ...... 31 ICB SPECIAL FEATURES...... 15 Liam James O’Brien
BD SCIENCE COMMUNICATION ITA - I7TH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF AWARD RECIPIENT – LELINH DUONG...... 17 IMMUNOLOGY ...... 34 Lelinh Duong Xiaoxiao Jia
ASI NSW BRANCH REPORT...... 19 PUBLICATIONS OF INTEREST...... 36 Helen McGuire Our Sustaining Members
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THE 20/20 WOMEN’S BD SCIENCE ITA: AACR SPECIAL INITIATIVE FOR ASI COMMUNICATION CONFEENCE ON TUMOR Kylie Quinn, AWARD IMMUNOLOGY & Women’s Initiative Lelinh Duong IMMUNOTHERAPY Coordinator Liam James O’brien
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PRESIDENT’S COLUMN JOHN FRASER, President [email protected]
Welcome to the first newsletter IUIS has opened a webinar series portfolio and is managed through and is calling for immunology JB Were with a group of senior for 2020. I think we can all agree and infectious disease experts to ASI members act as investment this will be a year like no other contribute and I encourage those advisory group. One of the and will be full of disruptions and members who feel competent important questions raised at cancelled events. enough to contribute. The details the AGM is how this revenue are listed in IUIS Corner in this can translate into activities that As I write, both New Zealand and newsletter. There is so much we directly benefit our members – for Australian governments have still don’t know about this virus example beefing up our funds for imposed travel restrictions that and the host immune response member and speaker travel. That essentially eliminate anything that leads to the serious lung will be a key agenda item for our but the most urgent travel across pathology and high fatality rate mid-year council meeting. the Tasman. This will limit our in older people. On that rather ability to gather in meetings The Margaret Baird Women in sober introduction, I can assure such as Council and it is almost Immunology Award was first you that for the immediate future, certain that our annual meeting awarded at the successful ASI will be business as usual, we scheduled for Auckland will be Adelaide meeting and received just won’t be able to meet! cancelled given so many of the strong interest. Another very invited speakers are coming On a positive note I was delighted successful development was from countries that are now in to report at the last AGM in the Advanced Immunology lockdown. The key question, now Adelaide that ASI now has record School held in July. Thanks to Su that we are in this crucial phase numbers of financial members Heinzel, Odilia Wijburg, Nicholas of the pandemic, is how long 1124. In 2019 ASI Life member Gherardin, Jessica Borger as these restrictions will remain in Jacques Miller (WEHI) along organizers and all those members place and whether we are able to with Max Cooper (Emory) were who contributed as teachers and conduct essential business such awarded the Albert Lasker Basic mentors. While we are planning as Council meetings on-line. I Medical Research Award we were to hold the AIS again this year, don’t think anyone is prepared to very quick to congratulate both Covid19 may put a damper on guess but my estimate is that it recipients. things. will be a year. Our Society is now benefitting Lastly, I am delighted to welcome As immunologists, we have from improved administrative Prof Stephen Turner as the often talked about and some services of Association Executive incoming Vice President and have even warned about the Services. The new ASI website Connie Jackaman as the new consequences of a serious viral and back-end membership ASI Honorary Secretary and pandemic – now we are living management system has greatly give my warmest thanks to Su it and it will be interesting to improved all aspects of comms Heinzel and Elissa Deenick for see how we all respond both and management membership their tremendous efforts as past individually and collectively. information. ASI has built very President and honorary Secretary. significant revenue, mostly Some of our members are actively I hope you all keep safe and well from the royalties of ICB and participating in international through this year and look to the significant return on the efforts to stem COVID19 and to contribute as immunologists to Melbourne international meeting. develop a vaccine as a long-term stemming this pandemic. solution and we wish you the This windfall has now been greatest success. placed in a long-term investment
3 EDITORIAL ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
A COUNTRY, A COMMUNITY BURNING BRIGHT ANGELICA LAU, Newsletter Editor [email protected]
I am already on my toes and Welcome back, everyone! productivity around the world. I super excited about the new Everything is on schedule! I am take this chance to thank all the delighted to publish our first volunteers, emergency services, initiatives ASI is planning to newsletter for 2020. health workers and our local put forward this year. and overseas friends who have As I put this newsletter together I supported various appeals during Speaking of which, the Margaret am already on my toes and super this time. Baird Award is soon – read more excited about the new initiatives about this from our Women ASI is planning to put forward this As we march through this Initiative’s special report! year and seeing our ASI members chaos (while ‘social distancing’), achieving great things – what a it comforts me to know that To get things rolling, I will also promising start to the year! promising progress is being made thank the Adelaide meeting to make the world a better place. organisers for the wonderful I am sure we would all agree Experts are joining hands at meeting that highlighted the end that it has been both a busy speeds faster than ever to combat of 2019 for ASI. Seeing the bright, start to the year and somewhat these challenges. I’m sure these intelligent and rather serious faces challenging time for our beloved won’t be stopping any of you from gathering to share a laugh from continent; ranging from raging rushing to apply for all the grant the Lafferty Debate was truly a bushfires, storms to the outbreak opportunities coming up soon – sight. Also congratulations to the of COVID19 pandemic that flood so good luck! many prize-winners from this news channel almost every day meeting . in the past few weeks. These So what’s new? I take this circumstances have been difficult chance to welcome our new In this newsletter it’s my pleasure for many of us collaborators ASI council members Stephen to introduce our BD Science and colleagues, threatening Turner (Vice President), Connie Communication Award recipient, facilities, communities and Jackaman (Honorary Secretary) Lelinh Duong – she truly rocked and Severrine Navarro (QLD the stage as a macrophage Councillor). Big thank you ‘forensic scientist’. I look to Susanne Heinzel (former forward to reporting many new President), Elissa Deenick (former achievements by our members Hon. Secretary) and Sumaira throughout the year. Husnain (former QLD Councillor) Did you know you can always who have served and contributed submit your collaboration/ to the growth and success of ASI conference/travel stories to the today. ASI newsletter ? I would be more It has been a pleasure to work than happy to hear about any with these wonderful female interesting stories that would be scientists – as an example of those of interest to the ASI community. advocating for women in science Welcome to shoot me an email and gender diversity - showing at anytime! Meanwhile, enjoy our ASI Adelaide Meeting gallery THANK YOU TO OUTGOING EXECUTIVES AT leadership and passion for ASI2019 (L-R) ELISSA DEENICK (OUTGOING their work. ASI is in good hands highlights, with credit to our HON. SECRETARY), JOHN FRASER and supported by those who volunteer ASI photographer Jim (PRESIDENT), SUSANNE HEINZEL (PAST- Zhang. PRESIDENT) work together to promote this.
4 ASI MEETING HIGHLIGHTS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
ASI Meeting highlights
5 ASI MEETING HIGHLIGHTS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
6 HELLO FROM YOUR NEW HON. SECRETARY ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
HELLO FROM YOUR NEW HONORARY SECRETARY CONNIE JACKAMAN, Honorary Secretary [email protected]
This is my first newsletter report University, working together on forward! since starting the Honorary multiple age-related projects. It Secretary role and I thought is fantastic to be sharing an office It’s a great time to remind I’d start with a big thanks to with my fellow EMCRs. Between outgoing Honorary Secretary, the three of us, we have a lot of everyone to renew your ASI Elissa Deenick, for all her hard traffic through the office (be it membership now, because April work and dedication to ASI. students, staff, children, dogs) 1st is the deadline to be eligible Elissa did an amazing job with and call it our ‘Office of Chaos’ - for most of our ASI awards and everything she has setup and but this usually means meetings opportunities throughout the organised, and has made an easy have to be held outside the office year. transition for the role moving (the Tav being a common choice forward. of venue). Take a few minutes to login here As a bit of background, I I have been an ASI member and renew now. completed my PhD in tumour for many years now, more immunology in WA (with Delia recently involved as a WA branch Nelson, Bruce Robinson and Jane committee member since Allan), followed by postdoctoral 2013, served as ASI WA branch training in muscle pathology. councillor (2016-2018) and Co- During the postdoctoral training, Chair for ASI2018 held in Perth. I became interested in ageing I am looking forward to working research and met my now long- with everyone. The people time collaborators (Miranda who put in their time for ASI Grounds, Hannah Crabb and all show great dedication; and Danielle Dye). Serendipitously, the supportive environment ASI Hannah, Danielle and myself fosters is to be applauded. I hope have all ended up at the Curtin that I can do the same going
2019 TREASURER’S REPORT ASOLINA BRAUN, Treasurer [email protected]
To view the 2019 Treasurer’s Report, please log in to your ASI member profile, and click on the ‘Documents’ tab.”
Please direct related inquiry to [email protected]
7 Clinical & ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020 Clinical & Translational Immunology
Translational Catch up on recent Special Features from Clinical & Translational Immunology, including:
Immunology CTI Special Feature on Unconventional immunity: the role of γδT cells in host defense and disease Special Feature Coordinators: Martin Davey and Emily Eriksson
γδ T cells have been preserved alongside αβ T cells and B cells for ~500 million years of vertebrate evolution. γδ T cells are increasingly recognised as having important Impact Factor 7.271 roles in immune responses to both microbial and non-microbial challenges in mice and humans. In this Special Feature of Clinical & Translational Immunology, we highlight the role of γδ T cells in infectious disease, cancer, transplantation and the lasting contributions of a pioneer of γδ T cell research. Cutting-edge advances (July 2019) in biomedical research Editor-in-Chief: Rajiv Khanna CTI Special Feature on Cell and Gene Therapy Clinical & Translational Immunology is an open Special Feature Coordinators: Paul Beavis and Phillip Darcy access, online-only journal, seeking to cover basic, translational and clinical studies in all aspects of Adoptive cellular immunotherapy involving the transfer of autologous chimeric human immunology, including experimental antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has resulted in remarkable responses in relapsed B cell models specific to human diseases. malignancies such as acute lymphoid leukaemia (ALL), often resulting in long-term remission in these patients. These results have led to recent FDA approval of two ASI members enjoy a discount for CAR T cell products for the treatment of CD19+ ALL and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. publishing in Clinical & Translational However, the broad use of this type of therapy for other cancers, in particular solid Immunology tumors, has been precluded by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. This includes the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, poor trafficking and infiltration of CAR T cells into the tumor site and heterogenous expression of antigen on the tumor Submit your next manuscript to Clinical & Translational Immunology cells. In this Special Feature of Clinical & Translational Immunology, we have invited and enjoy these benefits of publishing with Wiley leading experts in the adoptive immunotherapy field to discuss recent innovative developments for potentially increasing the function, trafficking and safety of CAR T cell therapy and for broadening the utility of this specialised form of immunotherapy for treatment of cancers that have failed conventional treatments. (March 2019)
Find out more at www.wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cti 20 - 16852
Start reading at www.wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cti
8 Clinical & Translational ImmunologyASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
Catch up on recent Special Features from Clinical & Translational Immunology, including:
CTI Special Feature on Unconventional immunity: the role of γδT cells in host defense and disease Special Feature Coordinators: Martin Davey and Emily Eriksson
γδ T cells have been preserved alongside αβ T cells and B cells for ~500 million years of vertebrate evolution. γδ T cells are increasingly recognised as having important roles in immune responses to both microbial and non-microbial challenges in mice and humans. In this Special Feature of Clinical & Translational Immunology, we highlight the role of γδ T cells in infectious disease, cancer, transplantation and the lasting contributions of a pioneer of γδ T cell research. (July 2019)
CTI Special Feature on Cell and Gene Therapy
Special Feature Coordinators: Paul Beavis and Phillip Darcy
Adoptive cellular immunotherapy involving the transfer of autologous chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has resulted in remarkable responses in relapsed B cell malignancies such as acute lymphoid leukaemia (ALL), often resulting in long-term remission in these patients. These results have led to recent FDA approval of two CAR T cell products for the treatment of CD19+ ALL and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, the broad use of this type of therapy for other cancers, in particular solid tumors, has been precluded by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. This includes the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, poor trafficking and infiltration of CAR T cells into the tumor site and heterogenous expression of antigen on the tumor cells. In this Special Feature of Clinical & Translational Immunology, we have invited leading experts in the adoptive immunotherapy field to discuss recent innovative developments for potentially increasing the function, trafficking and safety of CAR T cell therapy and for broadening the utility of this specialised form of immunotherapy for treatment of cancers that have failed conventional treatments. (March 2019) 20 - 16852
Start reading at www.wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cti
9 DERRICK ROWLEY MEDAL ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
DERRICK ROWLEY MEDAL HONORS SUSANNE HEINZEL & ALAN BAXTER CONNIE JACKAMAN, Honorary Secretary
The Derrick Rowley Medal is Susanne has served on ASI “Alan has always been eager awarded by ASI Council to council for 14 years: to enrich the experience of those who have demonstrated · 2002-5 SA/NT Councillor (4) ASI members. He has backed outstanding service to ASI and initiatives to commit financial · 2009-11 Secretary (3) the discipline of immunology resources for members’ over many years. In 2019, Susanne · 2013-15 Meeting Coordinator (3) benefit. He regularly engages Heinzel and Alan Baxter were · 2016 Vice President (1) in constructive discussions at the most recent recipients to · 2017 - 18 President (2) Council, General Assembly and be awarded the Derrick Rowley · 2019 Past President (1) other forums, and participates Medal for their dedication to ASI. in the defining activities of the “ASI owe a great debt to Susanne society. For instance, he has been Susanne was nominated by for shaping the society into what a Lafferty debater on several John Fraser, Antje Blumenthal it is today.” occasions, which he did always Alan Baxter was nominated by with courage, often with wit and Jose Villadangos, on behalf of Ian occasionally with controversy, Barr, Dale Godfrey, Andrew Lew terms that describe the and Jenny Rolland. With great quintessential features of what an nominations as follow:- ASI member should be.”
“Alan Baxter has played Thanks again to Susanne and Alan prominent roles on essentially for their commitment and service every position from which a to ASI over many years! member can contribute to ASI. If you know someone worthy The whole list of beneficial actions of receiving the Derrick Rowley Alan has performed for the society Medal please send through to the would be too long to include here” Honorary Secretary secretary@ PICTURE1: ASI PRESIDENT JOHN FRASER immunology.org.au. Nominations AND DERRICK ROWLEY MEDALLIST, “As President he led the push for SUSANNE HEINZEL ASI to bid for ICI2016, something can be accepted at any time! that delivered enormous benefits, For more information on Derrick and Anselm Enders. Her many financially, scientifically and Rowley Medallists please go to supporters have said:- reputationally. ICI2016 would not the website: www.immunology. have happened, or even aspired org.au/awards-and-special- “Susanne has been a tireless to, without Alan’s leadership and honours/special-honours/derrick- supporter of ASI for many years, gusto” rowley-medal/ serving on the Executive as both Secretary and President. In 2019, Susanne Heinzel and Susanne also organised the Alan Baxter were the most Advanced Immunology training recent recipients to be awarded programme this year and has the Derrick Rowley Medal for been instrumental in the ongoing collaboration between ASI and their dedication to ASI. the German Society, DGfI.”
10 THE IUIS CORNER ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
THE IUIS CORNER J. ALEJANDRO LOPEZ [email protected]
WEBSITE: WWW.IUISONLINE.ORG TWITTER: TWITTER.COM/IUIS_ONLINE FACEBOOK: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/IUISORG/
Calling for Experts: COVID-19 Immunology Societies (FOCIS). New Zealand immunologists are This year, the awardees were: not eligible to apply for these Given the speed at which scholarships, the courses are the spread of COVID-19 is · Ricardo Mora Cartin exceptional learning opportunities developing and the urgent need (Universidad de Costa Rica) for those who may identify other for information in this area, we · Gurvinder Kaur (All India sources of funding. are planning to have biweekly Institute of Medical Sciences) interview/webinars with an expert This year the courses will take in the field. It will be hosted on · Thanich Sangsuwannukul, place as follows: the Frontiers in Immunology (Faculty of Medicine Siriraj · The AAI Introductory Course in platform and would then be Hospital, Mahidol University. Immunology (July 7 – 12, 2020, circulated though our existing Thailand) at the UCLA Luskin Conference networks. · Pei-Shan Andrea Sung Center, Los Angeles, California). (Genomics Research Center, We kindly ask our members with Academia Sinica, Taiwan). · The AAI Advanced Course in expertise to get involved in the Immunology (July 26 – July project and get in touch with me Australian and New Zealand 31, 2020, at the Westin Copley personally. Please let us know by students are eligible to apply as Place, in Boston, MA). 15 March 2020 if you are able to long as they have not previously participate through the link here: received support from the Upcoming IUIS Congresses IUIS or FOCIS. Please, make www.iuis.org/news/call- · 2022, Cape Town, South Africa. sure you keep an eye on these for-experts-iuis-frontiers-in- August 15th - 20th will have the opportunities for the coming year. immunology-webinar-series-on- theme “Turning discoveries covid-19/ Similarly, The IUIS Education into treatments”. Congress (EDU) and Gender Equality and president is Clive Grey and the Career Development (GEC) Scientific Committee will be chaired by Mark Davis (USA) and IUIS scholarships Committees and the American Association of Immunologists vice chaired by Miriam Merad Every year, IUIS supports the (AAI) co-sponsor 8 travel awards (IUIS vice-president, USA). Visit attendance to the Advanced for trainees from the website: www.iuis2022.org Course in Basic & Clinical the developing to attend the excellent Immunology , which this year world · 2025, Vienna, Austria, August (northern hemisphere) summer takes place on March 1 – 4, 2020 17th – 22nd courses. While Australian and in San Diego, California, USA. The Upcoming IUIS Council meetings support of a travel bursary of up · 71st Council Meeting, to USD 2,000, complimentary Australian and New Zealand 29 November 2020, Lilongwe, registration, fully-covered four students are eligible to apply Malawi night’s accommodation and as long as they have not meal comes via the Gender · 72nd Council Meeting, Equality and Career Development previously received support 22 May 2021, Cuba Committee (GEC) and from the IUIS or FOCIS. Please, · 73rd and 74th Council Meetings, the Federation of Clinical make sure you keep an eye on 14 & 16 August 2022, Cape Town, these opportunities. South Africa.
11 THE 20/20 WOMEN’S INITIATIVE FOR ASI ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
THE 20/20 WOMEN’S INITIATIVE FOR ASI KYLIE QUINN, Women’s Initiative Coordinator [email protected]
In this newsletter, we have email me and I can pass them on. LOTS of news to recap after the A few key concepts from her talk Annual Meeting. on how we can be more “Active for Equity” were: Women’s Initiative event: “Active for Equity” · The biggest impact you can have is to mentor and sponsor On the first day of the Annual folks. Meeting, we were joined by Prof Karen Farquharson from · Be mindful of extra challenges University of Melbourne, who faced by folks of intersectional spoke to us on what works and identity, i.e. folks that what doesn’t work in terms identify with multiple under- of diversity and inclusion represented groups. practices in the workplace. Prof · Incentivise management to Farquharson gave a thought- increase diversity in their teams provoking talk and then led a by making management socially HANDOUTS FROM THE “ACTIVE FOR discussion session – if you would EQUITY” EVENT, INCLUDING OUR GENDER accountable. like the slides from her talk, please EQUITY TOOLKIT, NOW AVAILABLE ON THE ASI WEBSITE.
We co-designed and distributed a handout summarising Prof Farquharson’s talk (which is available on the ASI website under “Recommended Resources”) and, to celebrate the event, we gave out badges and cookies (which were delicious). There were over 100 people registered for the event and a number of very welcomed, unregistered attendees – it was great to see substantial participation from the PROF KAREN FARQUHARSON FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE LEADING THE men of ASI, which was a key aim DISCUSSION ON DIVERSITY PRACTICES AT THE WOMEN’S INITIATIVE MORNING TEA of the event. We’d like to thank
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the ASI Executive and the Walter research, including a great article and Eliza Hall Institute for their in Women’s Agenda that you can generous support of the event, find on the ASI website under Prof Karen Farquharson for her “Recommended Resources”. insights and all the attendees for More recently, she engaged joining the conversation. with Dr Jess Wade from Imperial WOMEN’S INITIATIVE AWARDS College London to create a Wikipedia page for Margaret A number of awards were Baird. Jessica is an incredibly presented at the Annual Meeting, engaging speaker and will be including the Margaret Baird visiting Adelaide, Brisbane, Lectureship and Women’s Wellington and Dunedin on her Initiative Travel Awards. lectureship tour, so make sure to Margaret Baird Lectureship keep an eye out for her visit – you Awardee – Dr Jess Borger won’t want to miss it! WOMEN’S INITIATIVE TRAVEL AWARDEE, The inaugural Margaret Baird We were also joined by Margaret’s Lectureship was awarded to NIAMH TROY, FROM THE TELETHON KIDS daughter, Harriet Pope, who INSTITUTE Dr Jessica Borger, a Lecturer at presented the award on behalf Monash University and a well- of Margaret’s family. Harriet known advocate and mentor reflected on her mother’s warm Dimitra: for women and ECRs in the and generous character (which immunology community. She has she seemed to have inherited), Women’s Initiative Travel supported and led a number of her pride in her mother for Awardee – Niamh Troy initiatives, including a number traveling to meetings all around My research interests are on the of institutional committees the world, interacting with maturation of the infant innate on gender equity, diversity scientists and contributing to immune system, and how it can and inclusion and the Monash important research, and her be impacted by respiratory viral University Early Career Researcher excitement to be amongst the ASI infections in the first two years of Immunology Symposium, community that she’d heard so life, a critical window for asthma ImmuMon. She has authored a much about. and allergy development. The number of pieces on women in focus of my PhD is to define Finally, there was a great level of the mechanism of action of a interest in this award and it was bacterial immunomodulator a joy to review the applications. that we have recently shown There is a lot of wonderful work provides protection against being done by individuals across these infections (https://www. Australia and Aotearoa/New jacionline.org/article/S0091- Zealand to support women in 6749(19)30754-7/fulltext). To do immunology. So thank you to all this, I am combining immunology of our fantastic applicants, we with transcriptomics and network appreciate your efforts and keep graph theory and “omics” up the great work. integration. Women’s Initiative The WI award made it possible Travel Awards for my partner to accompany me As in previous years, the ASI to Adelaide to care for my son Women’s Initiative offered travel (Seamus, 10 months old) while I awards to support women with attended the conference, with parental responsibilities to peace of mind knowing he was attend the Annual Meeting. Our close by. The conference had awardees this year were Niamh an excellent scientific program INAUGURAL AWARDEE OF THE MARGARET Troy, a PhD candidate from of national and international BAIRD LECTURESHIP, DR JESSICA BORGER Telethon Kids Institute, and Dr speakers, kicking off with the (L), WITH MARGARET BAIRD’S DAUGHTER Dimitra Zotos, a researcher at Foundation lecture from Prof. WHO PRESENTED THE AWARD, HARRIET Monash University. We have some POPE (R). Jonathan Sprent; the excitement brief reports from Niamh and
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in the room for the program Annual Meeting. This means that ahead was palpable. A particular the Women’s Initiative Awards highlight was Pamela Ohashi’s category will now include Branch talk on the role of regulatory Meeting Carer Awards, Annual immune cells. Her energy and Meeting Carer Awards and determination were inspiring. The Women’s Initiative Travel Awards, collaborations continued at the as well as the Margaret Baird conference dinner with teams of Lectureship. immunologists flexing their brain We will have multiple deadlines muscles in the famous and fierce for the Branch Meeting Carer Limerick battle! Awards to synchronise with the I would like to acknowledge Branch Meetings – see the ASI my supervisors Prof. Pat Holt, website for details. Dr. Deborah Strickland and http://www.immunology.org.au/ Dr. Anthony Bosco for their awards-and-special-honours/ continued support of my career awards/witravel/ development and for their ARI WAS A BIG FAN OF THE JOMAR LIFE understanding that I wear more RESEARCH “CASH GRAB” BOX To clarify the different awards hats than one! I would like to that are available, we also have thank ASI and the Women’s a handy flow chart! We will have Initiative Councillor, Dr. Kylie role of B cells in graft rejection the flow chart on the ASI website Quinn, for supporting women in in lung transplant recipients under “Women’s Initiative Awards” immunology and for responding (performed at the Alfred Hospital, and we will update the website to the barriers that are commonly Melbourne). with the new criteria, application cited by female researchers. I’m grateful to ASI for offering this forms and award deadlines. travel award as it allowed me to Women’s Initiative Travel attend the ASI annual meeting Awardee – Dr Dimitra Zotos with my 1-year old son, Ari, and My research has two major my partner, Shalin, to care for focuses, revolving around B him. Attending the meeting cell biology. The first involves without Ari (while I know many examining the role of IL-21 in parents do this) was quite a humoral immunity using mouse confronting prospect and one models. The second, a more I may not have been able to go recent endeavour, focuses on the through with. Having him nearby allowed me to be at ease at the meeting, to present my research, to network widely and to make the most of all the annual meeting had to offer.
Also, I would like to especially thank the women at the Jomar booth for having endless patience with entertaining Ari and showing him the money machine cube (on repeat)!
New Eligibility Criteria for Women’s Initiative Awards in 2020 In 2019, we had the first Branch Meeting Carers Award to help
WOMEN’S INITIATIVE TRAVEL AWARDEE, women and men with caring DR DIMITRA ZOTOS, FROM MONASH responsibilities to attend the UNIVERSITY AND HER SON, ARI AT THE Branch Meetings. In 2020, we will POSTER SESSION. have an analogous award for the
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16 BD SCIENCE COMMUNICATION AWARD RECIPIENT ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
BD SCIENCE COMMUNICATION AWARD RECIPIENT – LELINH DUONG 2019 ASI ANNUAL MEETING, ADELAIDE LELINH DUONG, PhD candidate, supervised by Dr Connie Jackaman; Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia [email protected] Twitter: LelinhDuong LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lelinh-duong-5574a9188
“THRILLED TO BE PRESENTING AT ASI 2019 IN THE BD SCIENCE COMMUNICATION SESSION!”
2019 BD Science Communication Winner: Lelinh Duong Last year at the ASI meeting in Adelaide I had the pleasure of receiving the BD Science communication award amongst a group of outstanding early career researchers. I presented the work of my PhD project, which looks at the impact of ageing on tumour- associated macrophages and how this affects cancer progression in the elderly. My presentation FIGURE 1: TUMOUR-ASSOCIATED MACROPHAGES (TAMS) CAN CONSTITUTE A LARGE PROPORTION OF CELLS IN THE TUMOUR MICROENVIRONMENT AND EXISTS WITHIN A was inspired by CSI: Crime Scene SPECTRUM OF FUNCTIONAL PHENOTYPES: FROM ANTI-TUMOUR TO PRO-TUMOUR. TAMS Investigation, where I examined CAN BE READILY SUBVERTED BY CANCER CELLS TO ADOPT A “BAD”, TUMOUR PROMOTING the evidence found at a “crime ROLE. AGEING MAY INFLUENCE THIS PROCESS AND INCREASE THE NUMBER OF PRO- scene”, which represented some TUMOURIGENIC MACROPHAGES. THIS CAN LEAD TO FASTER TUMOUR GROWTH AND POORER OUTCOMES FOR ELDERLY CANCER PATIENTS. key findings from my PhD project.
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Few studies have looked at the effect of ageing on macrophages and no studies have looked at it in mesothelioma and lung cancer. Studies conducted by our group have identified a major defect in the form of increasing number of suppressive macrophages in tissues of elderly mice, with altered sensitivity to pro- or anti-inflammatory stimuli.
FIGURE2: THE “CRIME SCENE” ABOVE IS A SLIDE TAKEN FROM MY BD SCIENCE COMMUNICATION PRESENTATION WHERE I REPORTED “EVIDENCE” IN THE FORM OF KEY FINDINGS FROM MY PROJECT.
Currently, I am conducting my PhD research at Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, a part of Curtin University in Western Australia under the supervision of Dr Connie Jackaman, A/Prof Delia Nelson and A/Prof Fiona Pixley. In the Immunoageing group led by Dr Connie Jackaman, we are interested in studying the biology of ageing and investigating the underlying mechanisms that contribute to ageing and age- related diseases, including cancer, muscle injury and dementia.
The world population is ageing with many cancers emerging in the elderly, yet the elderly remain “PRESENTING BREAKING NEWS: MACROPHAGES ARE SUSPECTED OF PROMOTING CANCER an underrepresented group in GROWTH IN THE ELDERLY AND ARE BEING INVESTIGATED” pre-clinical and clinical cancer research. Mesothelioma and lung cancer are commonly diagnosed Currently, few studies have related macrophage dysregulation in elderly people and prognosis looked at the effect of ageing on have not been elucidated and for these types of cancers remain macrophages and no studies have forms the objective for my PhD poor; anti-cancer treatment looked at it in mesothelioma and project. We have convincing data options are limited and may not lung cancer. Studies conducted which identifies a key pathway be effective. This may be due to by our group have identified that is perturbed with ageing the impairment of the immune a major defect in the form of and cancer. In upcoming work, system with ageing, this concept increasing number of suppressive we will be treating our animal is known as “immunoageing”. macrophages in tissues of elderly cohorts with several therapeutic Macrophages are abundant mice, with altered sensitivity to drugs targeting this pathway. The immune cells in tissues and pro- or anti-inflammatory stimuli. outcome from these experiments tumours; contributing up to 50 These suppressive macrophages will hopefully help guide the percent of the tumour burden, may support tumour growth more design of effective anti-cancer which is often correlated to poor readily in the elderly. However, therapies for the elderly. clinical outcome. the mechanisms behind age-
18 NSW BRANCH REPORTS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
ASI NSW BRANCH REPORT HELEN MCGUIRE, NSW Branch Councillor [email protected]
Hi everyone, Rothlin – Garvan August 2020, Prof. Shabaana Khader – USYD We’re in full planning mode for Jan/Feb2021 with details for a whole range of immunology Plans for this the branch Stephanie Boisson-Dupis’ visit to activities to be held in NSW meeting are well underway, be confirmed - watch this space! this year. We’ll keep you posted with a likely return to Bowral with email blasts as details are Peppers Craigieburn for our We’ll provide details of their visit finalised. retreat venue. Stay tuned for in upcoming newsletter editions and via NSW member email Day of Immunology Celebrations a ‘save the date’ email – but updates. feel free to add a calendar Grill-an-Immunologist NSW/ACT branch meeting This year we aiming looking to placeholder for 3rd and 4th hold a ‘Grill-an-Immunologist’ September. Due to the current Coronavirus career webinar with various high pandemic we have decided to schools and teachers, dates are to cancel the ACT/NSW ASI Branch Showcasing the wonderful be confirmed. Contact Angelica retreat that we started to plan for immunology research at Lau ([email protected]) and September. I’m sure it will come Westmead and their extended Joanne Reed (j.reed@garvan. as no great shock to each of you, collaborative network, Westmead org.au) for more info and to get given the current advice around Institute will host a series of involved. social distancing. short talks throughout the day UNSW Museum of Human Disease at the Westmead Education We will regularly assess the partnership (various dates) and Conference Centre (Level 2; situation and may plan a branch Continuing our longstanding Lecture theatre 3). All welcome retreat for a later date this year association, this year we’ll get to attend, reaching out to if it is safe to hold such an event. involved in teacher training days, hospital connections as well as We will be in touch as soon as public outreach events and our undergraduate students. we have more information to share but unfortunately it seems ever popular ‘face-time with a Contact Joanne Gamble (joanne. currently unlikely that we will scientist’ video link ups to our [email protected]) and be able to meet this year for our regional high school network. Scott Byrne (scott.byrne@sydney. retreat. Contact Fabio Luciani (luciani@ edu.au) for more info and to get unsw.edu.au) for more info and to involved. Please feel free to contact me get involved. if you would like to get more information or get involved in any New – Featuring Immunology events (helen.mcguire@sydney. Research at the Westmead Hub – Visiting Speakers Program edu.au). As always, I’m always 28th April Looking forward to hosting; Carla keen to hear suggestions.
19 SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP NEWS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP NEWS HELEN MCGUIRE, NSW Branch Councillor [email protected]
It is with great enthusiasm I Immunometabolism SIG! Stay can think about it when you are report on our ASI Special Interest tuned for an introduction article renewing your ASI membership. Groups. We’re now entering our from their leadership group in a Also checkout each SIGs webpage 2nd year of ASI SIG re-invigoration later newsletter edition this year. for updates www.immunology. and there is a buzz of energy! org.au/asi-programs-and- As for this edition, read on for opportunities/special-interest- You may recall this time last year great news and reports from our groups/. we announced the consolidation Education SIG and our Mucosal of our SIGs reinvigoration, that Immunology SIG. Don’t forget to 8 engaged SIGs up and running join mailing lists for the various in the society. Now, I’m pleased SIGs that interest you. This is to write as was announce at the accessible through your ASI AGM last year – welcome to the website member profile- you
20 20 NOOSA THROUGH THE MUCOSA AND MICROBIOME ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
NOOSA THROUGH THE MUCOSA AND MICROBIOME JONATAN LEFFLER (on behalf of the MI committee: Simon Phipps, Damon Tumes, Phil Stumbles, Lisa Connor, Simon Keely, Charani Ranasinghe, Mike McGuckin, Ken Beagley and Colby Zaph)
For more information on Mucosal Immunology SIG, visit the ASI website via the link here.
On 24th-26th June this year, The meeting will feature several With much regret, we have had Mucosal Immunoloigists and high-profile speakers including to cancel this meeting. Microbiome researchers had Kim Barrett (UCSD), Benjamin originally planned to gather in Marsland (Monash), Gerard Many thanks to our Speakers, Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, Kaiko (U Newcastle) and Valeire Chairs and registered Delegates Queensland for a three day Verhasselt (UWA). In addition to for their support. meeting. The symposium will an excellent scientific program, provide an excellent opportunity including themes such as MAIT COVID19 pandemic. to hear from world-leading cells, maternal lifestyle and Many thanks to our Speakers, experts in mucosal immunology neonatal immunity, microbiome Chairs and registered Delegates and microbiome research and to and non-mocosal diseases, there for their support. present and discuss novel data in will also be plenty of opportunity All delegates will be contacted a small and friendly setting with for networking and socialising in soon about their refunds. fellow researchers from across beautiful Noosa. Australia and New Zealand. We hope you consider attending As the Mucosal Immunology this symposium in the future and SIG is committed to facilitate look forward to welcoming you attendance of students and next year. On 24th-26th June this year, early career researchers, the Mucosal Immunoloigists and registration fee will be reduced Microbiome researchers had by $200 for the 25 first students/ originally planned to gather in early career researchers who Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, register for the symposium. Queensland for a three day With much regret, however, we meeting. have had to cancel this meeting due to precaution for current
21 NOOSA THROUGH THE MUCOSA AND MICROBIOME ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
The ASI Mucosal Immunology SIG invites you to the: Mucosal Immunology and Microbiome Symposium, Noosa
24th-26th June 2020st PeppersRegister Resort & before Villas,1 Noosa,of Apri QLDl! Many thanks to our Speakers, Chairs and registered 24th – 26th of June 2020 Delegates for their support. MEETINGPeppers Resort and CANCELLED Villas, Noosa, QLD With much regret, we have had to cancel this meeting due to added precautions in response to the ongoing COVID19 pandemic.Please joinAll delegates us for awill fantastic be contacted opportunity soon about totheir share refunds. your Welcome latest to research get in touch findings with our muscosal and hear SIG from distinguishedcommittee speakers and stay updatedin an informal with events setting in the future on the on ASI’sbeautiful event pageSunshine. coast.
Kim Barrett Benjamin Alexandra Gerard Kaiko Connie Wong Valerie University of Marsland Corbett University of Monash Verhasselt California, San Monash University of Newcastle and University University of Diego University Melbourne and HMRI Western Doherty Australia Institute
More information at: https://www.immunology.org.au/events/ASI-Mucosal- Immunology-and-Microbiome-Symposium-Registration/
22 LET’S TALK ABOUT EDUCATION IN IMMUNOLOGY ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
LET’S TALK ABOUT EDUCATION IN IMMUNOLOGY SAMY SAKKAL, on behalf of Education SIG committee [email protected]
The 48th annual scientific meeting was an historic occasion for the education special interest group since it announced (for the first time) a place for immunology pedagogy within the main Many thanksscientific to our Speakers, event of our great Chairs andASI community.registered Our workshop was held on Wednesday 11th Delegates Decemberfor their support. which saw up to 40 delegates attending (a respectable number considering that our session was competing with lunch!). We want to say thank you to all delegates and speakers for their enthusiastic participation during the presentations and at our short meeting afterwards. Kudos must go to our national coordinator Dr Kim Murphy (Monash University) who was (L TO R) SAMY SAKKAL, MAURIZIO COSTABILE, NATKUNAM KETHEESAN AND HELEN MCGUIRE responsible for reviewing ROLE PLAY THE IMMUNE RESPONSE TO BACTERIA AT THE 48TH ANNUAL SCIENTIFIC abstracts for our meeting and MEETING AS PART OF “TEACHING WITH TEE’S has been leading the education SIG since its inception, and our numbers have since grown to a consensus curriculum in with Tee’s: A novel kinaesthetic over 100 participants to date. immunology and building teacher teaching strategy for The session kicked off with resources for medical schools in undergraduate immunology Professor Natkunam Ketheesan’s Sri Lanka.” Ketheesan presented teaching”. Samy’s presentation presentation titled “Developing a format for implementing highlighted the impact of using an integrated immunology T-shirts in his immunology curriculum that could be adopted teaching and his presentation was The 48th annual scientific by others in resources restricted accompanied by a role-playing meeting was an historic settings. Indeed, the idea of demonstration where delegates occasion for the education developing a national curriculum could witness “the immune special interest group since it will be a topic for discussion at response to bacteria” with starring announced (for the first time) a our next SIG meeting. roles by Maurizio (who played out the role of the DC), Ketheesan place for immunology pedagogy Next, Dr Samy Sakkal presented (CD4+T helper cell) and Helen his novel contributions to within the main scientific event (phagocyte). The role play was kinaesthetic learning in his of our great ASI community. enjoyed by all and the SIG hopes presentation titled “Teaching
23 LET’S TALK ABOUT EDUCATION IN IMMUNOLOGY ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
Some of our best researchers concepts, with significant impact contributed to the education SIG of student learning outcomes. workshop. I would like to invite rarely get to share their more ASI members to consider After the presentations, our expertise as educators thus joining the. For more details go to members convened to discuss our Education SIG page on the ASI the education SIG provides a the future of the education SIG. website here: forum that current and aspiring The first item on the agenda was academics could benefit from to inform members that the ASI https://www.immunology.org.au/ executive had authorized the asi-programs-and-opportunities/ to feature more of these types of creation of a new $1000 teaching special-interest-groups/ presentations in the future given award. It was also suggested education/ that a student prize be created that the best way to observe one’s Some of our best researchers to support the next generation of pedagogy is to experience it. rarely get to share their expertise aspiring immunology educators. Our third and final presentation as educators thus the education Other issues discussed include was from Dr Maurizio Costabile SIG provides a forum that current scheduling our workshops at whose presentation was titled and aspiring academics could future annual meetings so that “Development and evaluation benefit from and I look forward they did not compete with lunch. of an interactive simulation to to seeing wider representation at Members had also expressed teach undergraduate immunology our next annual scientific meeting that we needed representation students all stages of monoclonal or our quarterly online meetings. in the running of the Advanced antibody production.” Maurizio’s Immunology School. Our next meeting will be on presentation highlighted the Thursday 16th April and we In closing, I would like to thank importance of active learning in encourage new members to join. teaching complex immunological everyone that attended and
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24 UPCOMING VISITING SPEAKERS IN 2020 ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
UPCOMING VISITING SPEAKERS IN 2020 STUART MANNERING, VSP Coordinator s.mannering@[email protected]
Prof Paul Kubes. Prof Hai-Hui Xue Dr Stephanie After some will be visiting in Boisson-Dupis, delays, Paul will October 2020. Lisa will be hosted be visiting in early Mielke of the ONJI by Stuart Tangye May 2020. He will will be hosting the of the Garvan be hosted jointly visit. The itinerary Institute. She is by Anne Bruestle (ANU) and is currently being finalized. planning to visit in early July 2020. Michael Hickey (Monash). Paul The itinerary is currently being Prof Andre will be visiting Canberra, Sydney, finalized. Veillette. Melbourne and NZ. Fernando Reminder: A/Prof Carla Guimaraes of The next round of nominations for Rothlin: Carla University of the ASI Visiting Speaker program will be visiting Queensland will close on 31st March 2020. Melbourne, host Andre’s visit. He is planning Please see the ASI website for Sydney and to come in November-December nomination forms and instructions Brisbane in early 2020 and visit Vic, NSW, QLD, WA www.immunology.org.au/asi- August 2020. Her visit is being and NZ. programs-and-opportunities/ hosted by Ian Parish of the Prof Shabaana visiting-speaker-program/ Peter Mac Khader. Brin nominate-a-speaker/ Ryder of Otago Thanks to all the speakers, hosts, University, NZ will The next round of nominations ASI volunteers and members who be the host for for the ASI Visiting Speaker continue to make the visiting Shabaana. She will program close on 31st speaker programme such a visit in Jan/Feb 2021. The itinerary vibrant part of ASI. March 2020. is currently being finalized.
25 VISIT FROM PROF. STEVEN ALBELDA ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
PROF. STEVEN ALBELDA FROM UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA VISITS ASI COMMUNITY ALEC REDWOOD, Principle Research Fellow, National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, University of Western Australia; Harry Perkins Institute, QEII 6 Verdun St Nedlands
In 2019 Professor Steven Albelda from the prestigious Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, the oldest school of medicine in the United States, visited Australia as an ASI VSP. Steve arrived in Perth on the October 14th and left Australia on the 28th of October having visited, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney.
ASI, Western Australia.
The National Centre for Asbestos PHOTO 1: RESEARCHERS AT NCARD WITH PROF. STEVEN ALBELDA (BACK ROW, Related Diseases (NCARD) was CENTER, 6TH FROM THE LEFT) fortunate to be joined for their 2019 Annual Scientific Meeting by Professor Steve Albelda (See long time: “For mesothelioma program. Steven has been photo 1) from the prestigious researchers, coming to Perth is one of the original pioneers of Perelman School of Medicine at like coming to Mecca”. using chimeric antigen receptor the University of Pennsylvania, the (CAR) T cells, a specialised oldest school of medicine in the Steve also presented a seminar form of immunotherapy for United States. on “Understanding the Immune treatment of patients. His visit Environment in Malignant A distinguished academic and was timely particularly given Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer long-time research collaborator the recent FDA approval of (Don’t believe everything your with Bruce Robinson and other CAR T cells for the treatment of rodent friends tell you” to ASI NCARD researchers, Steve was in certain blood cancers and the members (see photo 2). His visit Perth as a guest of the Australian recent announcement by the to Perth was highly successful, & New Zealand Society for Federal government of the “New generating a lot of scientific Immunology (ASI). Steve’s also Centre of excellence for cellular discussion and establishing gave public lecture (open to all immunotherapies” at the Peter collaborations with local the WA scientific community Mac. researchers. including ASI member) as part Steven’s presentation was titled of the NCARD Annual Scientific ASI, Victoria. “CAR T cells for solid tumors: A Meeting, entitled “Novel Clinical We were fortunate to have work in progress. His seminar Trials in Mesothelioma”. Steve Professor Steven Albelda visiting was well attended by local ASI/ also provided his comments the Peter MacCallum Cancer IgV members from the Peter Mac and a thoughtful and generous Centre on Oct 22nd 2019. Steven’s and other surrounding medical summary of the meeting. He visit was sponsored by the ASI Institutes. A number of clinicians also said what I suspect will be and Immunology group of Victoria interested in the development of a favorite quote for us for a very (IgV) through the visitor speakers CAR T therapy for patients were
26 VISIT FROM PROF. STEVEN ALBELDA ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
also in attendance. His seminar was very well received where he discussed the current state of play of using CAR T cells for treatment of both blood and solid cancers in the clinic which was followed by the progress of several novel approaches his laboratory are developing for further improving this approach. In addition to his seminar, Steven spoke to a number of scientists and students throughout the day and also toured the Cell Therapy facility led by Dominic Wall. Overall, Steven provided very positive feedback from his visit PHOTO 2: STEVE PRESENTING A SEMINAR ON “UNDERSTANDING THE IMMUNE to Melbourne and the Peter Mac ENVIRONMENT IN MALIGNANT MESOTHELIOMA AND LUNG CANCER. and he spoke highly of the visitors speaker program that supported his visit. He was impressed by the high quality of research here in Melbourne and was looking forward to establishing several collaborative projects in the future.
His visit to Perth was highly successful, generating a lot of scientific discussion and establishing collaborations with local researchers.
ASI, New South Wales ASI NSW was pleased to host Steven Albelda on the ASI VSP tour. Steve presented a special seminar at the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Education Centre on 25th October 2019, entitled “Novel Cancer Immunotherapy Clinical Trials: Beyond Checkpoint Blockade”. Following active discussion engagement with the audience, Steve then met with members of our Sydney-wide research community for the remainder of the day, particularly at the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney. This included a networking lunch at the nearby Grandstand café. This leg of Steve’s visit was coordinated by ASI NSW Councillor Dr Helen McGuire.
27 ITA RECIPIENT - AMANIA A. SHEIKH ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL AWARDS
ITA RECIPIENT - AMANIA A. SHEIKH B CELL-T CELL INTERACTIONS, KEYSTONE RESORT, KEYSTONE, COLORADO USA, FEBRUARY 10-14, 2019 Affiliation: Groom lab, Walter & Eliza Hall institute of Medical Research [email protected]/ @amania_sheikh
In February this year, I was by picturesque countryside with other conference attendees fortunate to attend B Cell-T Cell snow covered mountains and that led to new connections and Interactions Symposia held in climbed to approximately 9248 collaborations. keystone, Colorado, USA. The meters above sea level, reaching The five day keystone symposia meeting was held in the Keystone, keystone resort, the site of the conference was attended by a popular summit county known meeting. While, I was en route several students and early career for its winter activities including to keystone, I shared a ride with scientists all brought together snowboarding, ski schools for all ages, large man-made lake that freezes over and is used for ice skating. Here, I was traveling to keystone in winters to attend my first international conference to get the best of what keystone had to offer.
After arriving at Denver, I caught a shuttle service which was over a period of 1.5 hours surrounding
After arriving at Denver, I caught a shuttle service which was over a period of 1.5 hours surrounding by picturesque countryside with snow covered mountains and climbed to approximately 9248 meters above sea level, reaching keystone resort, the site of the AMANIA SHEIKH USING HAND GESTURES TO GET HER POINT ACROSS. PHOTO CREDIT JOANNA GROOM meeting.
28 ITA RECIPIENT - AMANIA A. SHEIKH ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
KEYSTONE MAN-MADE LAKE IN THE HEART OF KEYSTONE VILLAGE
under the umbrella of B cell-T second last day of the conference. I had my first ever ski lesson cell interactions. There was a I was pleased with the attendance plethora of presentations from at my session. I was driven by on the last day of the meeting distinguished scientist in the enthusiasm shown by delegates and the rest of the days during field presenting key highlights that encouraged me to engage in lunch breaks I enjoyed strolls on unpublished or “in-press” long discussions without realizing around keystone lodge. I am research that covered broad that I have been talking non-stop grateful to Australian & New range of topics from basic for hours! Amber Papillion a PhD Zealand Society for Immunology biology of Tfh development, B student presented her project cell activation and differentiation, about intrinsic IL-6 mechanism in for International Travel Award current advancements and T follicular cells that help TFHs to to support my travel to this future directions for vaccine tolerate inhibitory IL-2 response. conference. development. Of these, there Overall, the conference provided were few notable presentations me an opportunity to get valuable feedback on my PhD research that are worth mentioning. topic and broaden my prospective Professor Carola G Vinuesa from of B and T cell interaction Australian National University, research internationally. In Canberra, presented a latest addition, the meeting fostered a research by her PhD student great networking environment which eloquently demonstrated and future collaborations. I had that B cell class recombination my first ever ski lesson on the (CSR) occurs prior to geminal last day of the meeting and the centres. Stephanie C. Eisenbarth rest of the days during lunch informed us of her discovery of a breaks I enjoyed strolls around novel IL-13 producing T follicular keystone lodge. I am grateful to helper cells and their role in Australian & New Zealand Society producing anaphylactic IgE to for Immunology for International allergens. Travel Award to support my travel My own poster presentation to this conference. My attendance tilted “Context dependent role in this meeting has been a for T-bet in T follicular helper stepping stone in my budding differentiation and germinal scientific career. center function following viral infection” was scheduled on the THE SNOWFALL & ME, KEYSTONE LODGE.
29 ITA RECIPIENT – ANDREW HEIGHTEN ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
ITA RECIPIENT – ANDREW HEIGHTEN 2019 ASI ANNUAL MEETING, ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA Affiliation: Supervised by Prof. Marcus Altfeld [email protected]
is also ongoing, including my I completed my PhD in New I hope to transition back to Zealand at the University of Otago research on NK cell education and with Assoc. Prof. Roslyn Kemp its effect on metabolism. research in Australasia region after I finish my postdoctoral before travelling to Oxford to I was thrilled to find that I was the work with Prof. Paul Klenerman recipient of a 2019 International training in Hamburg, so it for my first postdoctoral position. Travel Award. The award enabled was invaluable to be able to I am currently working in the me to travel from Germany to reintroduce myself to research Virus Immunology Department Australia for ASI2019 in Adelaide, and researchers from New with Prof. Marcus Altfeld at and to Melbourne where I visited Zealand and Australia, both the Heinrich Pette Institute in Prof. Andrew Brooks at the Peter those at the ASI meeting and the Hamburg, Germany. The work Doherty Institute and Prof. Nick group has a strong focus on Huntington at Monash University. labs I visited. protective immunity against It was great to meet Andrew, Nick HIV-1 and hepatitis viruses and, in and their respective lab members. to be given the opportunity particular, the role of NK cells in Both groups have exciting to present my data on NK cell this protection. Research into NK ongoing research projects and I metabolism as part of the Innate cell receptor–ligand interactions was happy to receive feedback on Immunity Workshop at this my own work from experts in the meeting. NK cell field. I was thrilled to find that I I hope to transition back to was the recipient of a 2019 ASI held an exciting meeting research in Australasia region International Travel Award. The this year with a great line-up of after I finish my postdoctoral award enabled me to travel invited speakers including Prof. training in Hamburg, so it Richard Flavell, who spoke on was invaluable to be able to from Germany to Australia for the importance of neuronal IL-18 reintroduce myself to research ASI2019 in Adelaide, and to in an intestinal infection model, and researchers from New Melbourne where I visited Prof. and Prof. Ronald Germain, who Zealand and Australia, both those Andrew Brooks at the Peter demonstrated advanced imaging at the ASI meeting and the labs I Doherty Institute and Prof. technologies used to study the visited. I am very appreciative of Nick Huntington at Monash spatial organisation of immune the opportunity I was given and cells in tissue. I was also grateful look forward to what the future University. brings.
30 ITA RECIPIENT – LIAM JAMES O’BRIEN ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
ITA RECIPIENT – LIAM JAMES O’BRIEN AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CANCER RESEARCH (AACR) SPECIAL CONFERENCE ON TUMOUR IMMUNOLOGY AND IMMUNOTHERAPY IN BOSTON, MA. Supervisor: A/Prof Kristen Radford: [email protected] [email protected] @ljobrien_
I am a 2nd year PhD student in A/Prof Kristen Radford’s lab within the Translational Research Institute in Brisbane, QLD. In the past Kristen identified human Type 1 conventional Dendritic Cells (cDC1s) as the counterparts to murine cDC1s which are indispensable for the generation of anti-tumour immunity in several mouse tumour models. Our lab focuses on further functional characterization of human cDC1, as well as novel methods to target these cells to enhance anti-tumour immunity.
In 2017, I created a mouse model bearing a human immune MYSELF AND MARK WUNDERLICH (RIGHT) AT THE CINCINNATI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND system (humanized mouse) MEDICAL CENTER. MARK IS A PIONEER OF HUMANIZED AND PDX MOUSE MODELS FOR THE where cDC1s could be targeted STUDY OF ACUTE LEUKEMIA. TWO DAYS’ WORTH OF CONVERSATIONS WITH MARK HAVE SAVED ME MONTHS OF WORK. and studied in the context of
We have hopes of establishing a human melanoma. The demand Our capacity continues to grow, core facility so that researchers for humanized mouse models and as such, we are constantly within Australia will have access such as this amongst the local refining protocols and adding new to affordable humanized mouse research community surprised techniques to our arsenal. We and Patient Derived Xenograft us and we soon found ourselves have hopes of establishing a core (PDX) models to expedite the preparing humanized mice facility so that researchers within for several research groups in Australia will have access to transition of novel effective addition to our own experiments. affordable humanized mouse and therapies to the clinic.
31 ITA RECIPIENT – LIAM JAMES O’BRIEN ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
SAMPLES OF PERIPHERAL BLOOD DRAWN FROM 150 HUMANIZED MICE BEARING PATIENT- MY POSTER (CLOSEST RIGHT) GENERATED DERIVED TUMOURS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL SCHOOL. EACH OF PLENTY OF INTEREST AT THE AACR THESE MICE CURRENTLY COST AROUND $1000USD TO MAKE, BUT THE VALUE THEY BRING SPECIAL CONFERENCE ON TUMOUR TO IMMUNOLOGICAL STUDIES IS INTANGIBLE. IMMUNOLOGY AND IMMUNOTHERAPY.
I was able to garner invaluable directly exposed to the inner effective implantation, as well as a advice pertaining to my own PhD workings of humanized/PDX wealth of knowledge pertaining to mouse facilities which produce the advantages and limitations of project (creating a humanized hundreds of mice per week several immunodeficient mouse mouse model of Acute Myeloid to service thriving research strains for studies of different Leukemia) ... but was also communities. cell types within an engrafted human immune system. This directly exposed to the inner I have brought back with me the award has not only assisted me in workings of humanized/PDX step-by-step protocols relating making connections for my own mouse facilities which produce to human stem cell isolation and hundreds of mice per week to service thriving research communities.
Patient Derived Xenograft (PDX) models to expedite the transition of novel effective therapies to the clinic.
During my recent trip overseas, I visited 3 established humanized mouse core facilities on the east coast of the USA in addition to attending an American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) Special Conference on tumour immunology and immunotherapy in Boston, MA. I was able to garner invaluable advice pertaining to my own PhD THE AACR SPECIAL MEETING ON TUMOUR IMMUNOLOGY AND IMMUNOTHERAPY project (creating a humanized HOSTED A WIDE RANGE OF PRESENTATIONS. CUTTING-EDGE IMAGING TECHNIQUES TO mouse model of Acute Myeloid VISUALIZE CLINICAL RESPONSE TO IMMUNOTHERAPIES OVER TIME, THE IMPACT OF THE Leukemia) from several leading GUT MICROBIOME AND DIET ON ANTI-TUMOUR IMMUNITY, AND THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PATHOLOGY AND SELECTION OF IMMUNOTHERAPIES WERE AMONG researchers in the haematological THOSE COVERED. malignancy field, but was also
32 ITA RECIPIENT – LIAM JAMES O’BRIEN ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
career; it has contributed to our • Cincinnati Children’s Molecular Medicine budding core facility which will Hospital and Medical Center, https://www.umassmed.edu/ have a flow-on effect to benefit Experimental Haematology and dcoe/ researchers around Australia. Cancer Biology Host: Michael Brehm, PhD Humanized mouse facilities I https://www. visited: cincinnatichildrens.org/ This award has not only assisted research/divisions/e/ex-hem/ • University of Pennsylvania Stem me in making connections for my labs/mulloy/lab-members Cell and Xenograft Core own career; it has contributed https://www.med.upenn.edu/ Host: Mark Wunderlich to our budding core facility scxc/ • University of Massachusetts which will have a flow-on effect Host: Gwenn Danet-Desnoyers Medical School, Program in to benefit researchers around PhD, Tony Secreto Australia.
33 2019 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL AWARD RECIPIENT – XIAOXIAO JIA ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
ITA RECIPIENT – XIAOXIAO JIA 17TH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF IMMUNOLOGY Supervisor: Katherine Kedzierska, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne [email protected]
PhD in Professor Kedzierska’s laboratory in 2017. My supervisor Prof. Katherine Kedzierska is the Head of the Human T Cell Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and a NHMRC Senior Research Fellow Level B. Our laboratory focuses on the immunity to viral infections, especially the newly emerged influenza viruses. Our basic research across both mouse and human experiments to understand universal CD8+ T cell immunity to influenza viruses in high risk groups including children, the elderly and Indigenous Australians.
PRESENTING MY WORK AT ICI 2019 BEIJING With great support from the ASI International Travel Award, I attended the 17th International Congress of Immunology (ICI), I am a 3rd year PhD student I finished my Master degree at the Peter Doherty Institute Beijing, China. This was the for Infection and Immunity, in Institute of Microbiology, largest conference I have been to, University of Melbourne. I finished Chinese Academy of Sciences with more than 6000 attendees my Master degree in Institute of in late 2016 and came to from 80 countries and covering Microbiology, Chinese Academy Australia to pursue my PhD a wide range of topics. Apart of Sciences in late 2016 and in Professor Kedzierska’s from receiving great feedback with many fantastic suggestions came to Australia to pursue my laboratory in 2017.
34 2019 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL AWARD RECIPIENT – XIAOXIAO JIA ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
I was also be able to network and meet researchers working on studies in similar areas across different countries, which was an incredible experience for me.
MAKING MANY NEW FRIENDS AND COLLABORATORS AT ICI 2019.
With great support from the ASI International Travel Award, I attended the 17th International Congress of Immunology (ICI), Beijing, China. This was the largest conference I have been to, with more than 6000 attendees from 80 countries and covering a wide range of topics. for my project following my oral presentation (Expression of CD38 and MHCII on CD8+ T cells following severe influenza virus infection) at the conference, I was also be able to network and meet researchers working on studies in similar areas across different countries, which was an incredible experience for me. I would like to thank ASI again for offering me the Travel Award for this conference that greatly supported my PhD study as well as established new networks and collaborations.
35 SPONSOR PUBLICATIONS & PRODUCTS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
PUBLICATIONS OF INTEREST OUR SUSTAINING MEMBERS
goGermline embryos (https://www.ozgene.com/goGermline)
Zhou et al. (2019). The testicular soma of Tsc22d3 knockout mice supports spermatogenesis and germline transmission from spermatogonial stem cell lines upon transplantation. Genesis. doi: 10.1002/dvg.23295
Knock-in mouse model (https://www.ozgene.com/services/knock-in-mice)
Du Pré et al. (2020). B cell tolerance and antibody production to the celiac disease autoantigen transglutaminase 2. J Exp Med. doi: 10.1084/jem.20190860.
Knockout mouse model (https://www.ozgene.com/services/knockout-mice)
Strauss et al. (2020). Targeted deletion of PD-1 in myeloid cells induces antitumor immunity. Sci Immunol. doi: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aay1863.
RosetteSep™ Human NK Cell Enrichment Cocktail ( https://www.stemcell.com/rosettesep-human-nk-cell- enrichment-cocktail.html) Boudreau et al. (2019). Selective induction of antibody effector functional responses using MF59-adjuvanted vaccination. The Journal of Clinical Investigation. doi: 10.1172/JCI129520
EasySep™ Direct Human Total Lymphocyte Isolation Kit (https://www.stemcell.com/easysep-direct-human- total-lymphocyte-isolation-kit.html)
Khoo et al. Liquid biopsy for minimal residual disease detection in leukemia using a portable blast cell biochip. Nature Precision Oncology. doi: 10.1038/s41698-019-0102-5
EasySep™ Human CD45 Depletion Kit II (https://www.stemcell.com/easysep-human-cd45-depletion-kit-ii.html)
Hsieh et al. (2019). The Prognostic Value of Circulating Tumor Cells in Asian Neuroendocrine Tumors. Nature Scientific Reports. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-56539-z
36 SPONSOR PUBLICATIONS & PRODUCTS ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
QUANTI-Blue (https://www.invivogen.com/quanti-blue)
Tran et al. 2019 (2019). Flagellin-elicited adaptive immunity suppresses flagellated microbiota and vaccinates against chronic inflammatory diseases. Nature Communications. doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-13538-y
MyBiosource Human Nesprin 1 ELISA kit and Human Zyxin ELISA (https://www.mybiosource.com/nesp1-human- elisa-kits/nesprin-1/69874)
Nguyen, B.T., Pyun, J., Lee, S. et al. Identification of new binding proteins of focal adhesion kinase using immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry. Sci Rep 9, 12908 (2019).
And many thanks to all our sponsors:
37 AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALAND SOCIETY FOR IMMUNOLOGY INC. ASI NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020
The aim of the ASI is to encourage ASI COUNCIL and support the discipline of immunology in the Australia and Executive New Zealand region. President – John Fraser [email protected]
The Australian and New Zealand Vice President – Stephen Turner [email protected] Society for Immunology Honorary Secretary – Connie Jackaman [email protected] Incorporated (ASI) was created by the amalgamation in 1991 of the Treasurer – Asolina Braun [email protected] Australian Society for Immunology, Voting Council formed in 1970, and the New Zealand Society for Immunology, NSW Councillor – Helen McGuire [email protected] formed in 1975. The aim of the SA/NT Councillor – Damon Tumes [email protected] Society is to encourage and support QLD Councillor – Severine Navarro [email protected] the discipline of immunology in the Australasian region. VIC/TAS Councillor - Scott Mueller [email protected]
It is a broadly based Society, ACT Councillor – Anselm Enders [email protected] embracing clinical and NZ Councillor - Ries Langley [email protected] experimental, cellular and WA Councillor – Bree Foley [email protected] molecular immunology in humans and animals. The ASI provides Non-voting council a network for the exchange of General Manager – Tyani Chan [email protected] information and for collaboration within Australia, New Zealand and Facebook + Twitter Manager - Gabriela Khoury [email protected] overseas. ASI members have been Newsletter Editor – Angelica Lau [email protected] prominent in advancing biological and medical research worldwide. IUIS Representative – J. Alejandro Lopez [email protected] We seek to encourage the study FIMSA Representative – Joanna Groom [email protected] of immunology in Australia and ICB Editor-in-Chief - Anne La Flamme [email protected] New Zealand and are active in introducing young scientists to the CTI Editor-in-Chief – Rajiv Khanna [email protected] discipline. SIG Coordinator – Helen McGuire [email protected] Visiting Speaker Program Coordinator – ASI Member Benefits include: Stuart Mannering [email protected] • International Travel Awards Women’s Initiative Coordinator – Kylie Quinn [email protected] • Bursaries to attend ASI’s Annual Meeting Meeting Co-ordinator – Antje Blumenthal [email protected] • New Investigator and Student 2020 LOC Meeting Chair – Ries Langley [email protected] Awards at ASI Annual Meeting DoI Coordinator - Gabriela Khoury [email protected] • ASI Women’s Initiative to support Honorary Archivist - Judith Greer [email protected] female scientists • ASI Member’s benefits publishing in ASI Journals ICB and CTI • Special offers from ASI’s The ASI membership directory, listing all financial members Sustaining Members of the Society is available at • Full access to the journals www.immunology.org.au/asi-membership-directory/ Immunology and Cell Biology, To join the ASI or renew your subscription, go to Clinical and Translational www.immunology.org.au/membership/ Immunology
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