Daphne Ma

Department: Immunology
Year Entered: 2005
Prior Degrees: BS, University of California Berkeley, 2005

Research Synopsis:
The main focus of my thesis project is to further define and examine dendritic cell (DC) – B cell interactions. Much of our current understanding of DC influence on adaptive immune responses has focused on regulation of T cell responses, and new research has provided insight into how DCs can both directly and indirectly regulate B cell responses. Our research is focused on how DCs regulate B cell activation and antibody production. In particular, we are examining how specific functional characteristics of DCs may affect B cell regulation. Specifically, we have focused on how the lifespan of DCs may affect antibody responses, and have shown that DCs with prolonged lifespan may suppress B cell responses. The significance of this research may contribute to our understanding of DCs in vaccines and therapies, as DCs with prolonged lifespan are currently being evaluated for efficacy in eliciting anti-tumor T cell immunity. It is important to understand how DC therapy would influence all aspects of the immune response in a patient, which requires a comprehensive understanding of DC regulation of T cells as well as B cells.

In addition, we are also currently investigating the importance of DCs in West Nile Virus infection in collaboration with Dr. Michael Gale, Jr. and others in this field. Previous research has highlighted the importance of B cells and antibody responses in protection against West Nile Virus. We are investigating how DCs play a role in protection against West Nile Virus. Our further understanding of how DCs regulate B cells may also provide insight into how DCs regulate B cell and antibody responses to West Nile Virus.

The Molecular Medicine Training Program has greatly influenced the direction of my thesis project and research interests. It has provided important context for how knowledge of basic immunologic processes can be applied to clinically relevant issues, and provided insight into the questions that are centered in my research goals. It has also provided me with a network of clinical and basic research scientists to whom I can discuss and collaborate with in my research, which is an invaluable asset to my research career. This program will provide me with important experience and a network of contacts that I hope will help me develop a future career in infectious diseases and public health education.

Publications:
The role of CD40 and CD154/CD40L in dendritic cells. Ma DY, Clark EA. Semin Immunol. 2009 Jun 11. [Epub ahead of print]