Email: Richard.k.grencis@manchester.ac.uk

Research profile and key clinical specialties

My research interests continue to be centred on immunity to gastrointestinal nematode infections, particularly Trichinella spiralis and Trichuris muris.

Current research is focussed on the immunoregulatory mechanisms operating during chronic infection, in terms of suppression of host protective immunity, regulation of pathology and modulation by the parasites themselves.

We are investigating cytokine networks, parasite immunomodulatory molecules utilising extensive transgenic facilities. We are also using quantitative genetics to define genes controlling resistance and susceptibility.

We have fostered numerous collaborations both within and outside Manchester including taking a lead on the Trichuris muris genome project with the Sanger Centre.

Two key publications

• Foth BJ, et al Grencis RK* Berriman M* (2014) Whipworm genome and dual-species transcriptome analyses provide molecular insights into an intimate host-parasite interaction. Nature Genetics. 46, 693-700. *Joint corresponding/senior authors
• Grencis RK. (2015) Immunity to helminths: resistance, regulation, and susceptibility to gastrointestinal nematodes. Annual Reviews in Immunology, 33, 201-25.

Possible PhD projects

• The consequences of chronic intestinal helminth infection: Extra-intestinal inflammation and liver disease.

More information

Trained over 20 PhD students to successful completion. Supervised joint PhD studentships across facilities. Many of my PhD students/mentored Fellows have gone on to successful academic research positions in their own right or obtained Fellowships.

Keywords: gastrointestinal, nematode, infections, Trichinella spiralis, Trichuris muris, immunoregulatory, parasites, cytokine, host-parasite, intestinal, Sanger Centre, Richard, Grencis, Manchester

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