Public Lecture: The Developing Immune System: Growing Strong or Going Wrong?

The immune system is essential for protecting our bodies, yet its development is a complex process that begins in early life. From birth, the immune system builds its defenses, influenced by factors like genetics, environment, and early exposures. So what are the key building blocks of immunity, and how can we support its development? Can we “boost” immunity, and what does that actually mean?

In this talk, Liggins Institute Associate Professor Gergely Toldi and Senior Research Fellow Anna Brooks will explore how the immune system develops and the critical concept of immune tolerance — the body’s ability to distinguish between harmful invaders and its own cells. They will also discuss inflammation and its role in both immune defence and chronic diseases.

The speakers will also discuss immune-mediated diseases, including long COVID, and the cutting-edge methods being used to study the immune system and develop new treatments.

Rohan Botica, co-founder of DysImmune Research Aotearoa, will also share his personal experience of living with post-viral illness (ME/CFS) and how immune dysfunction can have long-lasting effects.

Join us at 6pm on Thursday 3 April for a fascinating evening. You’re warmly invited to stay for drinks and nibbles afterwards.

Please sign up to register to attend here