Dr Andrew Sutherland

My research investigates immune tolerance and seeks to develop new immune therapies for type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases.

Our recent work has focused on how immune pathways control the function of effector and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the context of autoimmunity. Our studies investigating Type 17 immune pathways in preclinical models of type 1 diabetes have revealed important roles for IL-17 family receptors in diabetes progression. These are linked to changes in T cell function and altered composition of micro-organisms in the gut, such as bacteria.

We have also recently identified factors that can suppress the function of Tregs in type 1 diabetes models. Further study of these pathways may lead to the development of Tregs that have enhanced suppressive functions that could be used to prevent or treat type 1 diabetes.

Key achievements

2017-2021   JDRF International Career Development Award

2016-2017   Diabetes Australia Millennium Award Type 1 Diabetes

2010-2012   JDRF International Postdoctoral Fellowship

2007-2009   NHMRC CJ Martin Postdoctoral Fellowship

2002-2005   Australian Postgraduate Award, Postgraduate Scholarship; University of New South Wales, Faculty of Medicine Postgraduate Scholarship; Cooperative Research Council for Asthma Postgraduate Scholarship; Garvan Institute of Medical Research Postgraduate Scholarship