The 6th Student Monthly Progress presentation, also the first session for D2 students, was held on Friday, August 25th, 2023.

 

【Presenters】

1. HIRAISHI Masaya: Laboratory of Anatomy

Mucosal immunity in the head of autoimmune disease-prone mice

 

2. KOBAYASHI Daiki: Laboratory of Microbiology

Loss of multiple N-glycosylations on the neuraminidase stalk domain enhances the pathogenicity of an H7N7 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus to chickens

 

3. MEARS Chadwic De’Sean: Division of Molecular Pathobiology

Analysis of Mosquito-borne Sindbis virus and Eilat virus

 

【Chairpersons】

HSU Ying-Yuan: Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery

BARNES David Atomanyi: Division of Bioresources 

 

❖ Chairpersons’ Report ❖

Below is a summary of the research progress presentation of the outstanding work of the three D2 students from diverse laboratories. 

 

In his delivery, the first presenter Masaya Hiraishi shed light on the intricate world of mucosal immunity by investigating its dynamics in

autoimmune disease-prone mice (lpr). He explored the complex interplay between autoimmune diseases, mucosal epithelium,

and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). The study's significant findings revealed the development of MALT in the heads of

autoimmune disease models, suggesting that local cell proliferation plays a pivotal role in this process. In addition, the increase in

goblet cells in nasal mucosa with nasal-associated lymphoid tissue development has potential implications for local mucosal immunity

in lpr mice. 

 

Daiki Kobayashi ’s presentation delved into the realm of avian influenza viruses, focusing on the crucial role of neuraminidase (NA)

proteins in viral pathogenicity. His analysis focused on the impact of glycosylation sites on the NA stalk in determining the pathogenicity

of high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses in chickens. This insightful investigation not only illuminated the knotty interactions between

viral proteins and host organisms but also holds potential implications for the effective prevention and control of avian influenza outbreaks.

 

The last presenter, Chadwic De’Sean Mears's presentation was on mosquito-borne viruses, specifically focusing on Sindbis virus (SINV) and

Eilat virus (EILV). His comprehensive analysis investigated the growth kinetics and evolutionary relationships of SINV isolates, uncovering

valuable insights into the genetic diversity and potential implications for viral distribution and pathogenicity. Furthermore, his research into

EILV's replication capacity in insect cells contributes to our understanding of its potential as a vector-borne virus.

 

The event encompassed more than just presentations; it was an immersive experience. The student audience actively displayed their

engagement by posing pertinent and intellectually stimulating inquiries to the presenters, igniting a dynamic exchange of ideas.

These sessions not only propel the boundaries of our scientific understanding but also carry the potential to usher in practical solutions

in the real world. This initiative serves a dual purpose: it acquaints students with research endeavors outside their immediate focus and

nurtures a collaborative mindset.