Dr Nilisha Fernando

PhD, BMedSc (Hons)
Postdoctoral Researcher
ANU College of Health and Medicine
T: (02) 6125 9069

Research interests

Dysregulation of the innate immune system is strongly linked to the development and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This disease which affects the retina can lead to severe vision impairment and blindness, costing the global economy over 350 billion USD annually. Controlling inflammatory activation in AMD is therefore a major therapeutic strategy in slowing the progression of the disease. During my PhD candidature, I investigated the role of retinal microglia and macrophages in propagating inflammation in retinal degeneration, and explored a number of therapies to target these macrophages in disease progression. Currently, as a postdoctoral researcher, my research focus is the role of the retinal inflammasome, produced by microglia and macrophages, in retinal degeneration. I am investigating the use of microRNAs (regulators of gene transcription) in inhibiting retinal inflammasome activation.

 

Publications

Return to top

Updated:  19 March 2024 / Responsible Officer:  Director (Research Services Division) / Page Contact:  Researchers