Akane Tanaka
A research degree has allowed me to pursue my hunger for knowledge about the immune system
What is your qualification prior to this degree?
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical Science
What degree are studying/pursuing?
PhD candidate
Supervisor/s
Associate Professor Bronwyn O'Brien, Dr Sheila Donnelly
Research project title
Characterisation of an immune-modulating peptide secreted by a helminth worm
Describe your research project
My work revolves around the characterisation of a protein secreted by a helminth parasite. Having immune-modulatory properties, my lab group aims to develop this protein into a treatment for autoimmune disorders, such as Type-1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis, where it proved to have protective effects within diseased mice models.
What is the aim of your project?
The aim of my project is to work out the mechanism of action of the parasite protein, where I am interested in looking at its cellular effect on certain white blood cells within our immune system and how this may translate to its efficacy as a treatment for Type-1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis.
Why did you choose to pursue a research degree as opposed to going into the work force? Why this area of research?
I have always been interested in the area of Immunology, as I believe that it is something that affects all of us. A research degree has allowed me to pursue my hunger for knowledge about the immune system and having completed a successful Honours year, I decided to continue my research with a PhD.
What is your daily activity?
Mostly running around the lab doing experiments or working at my office.
What attracted you to research at UTS Science?
I think UTS has great facilities with structured programs that allow students like myself to pursue a career in research. I also love the atmosphere and the people that work here at UTS.
What is your future?
I would like to pursue further research with our current lab group, as it is currently at its exciting stage of having commercialised the research project.
