Dr Lekh Dahal joins the CDSS
The CDSS would like to welcome Dr Lekh Dahal, who joins us as a lecturer.
Dr Dahal obtained his MSc (2007) and PhD (2011) in Immunology from the University of Aberdeen, where he stayed for his first postdoctoral position investigating immune tolerance mechanisms in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
Lekh then moved to the Centre for Cancer Immunology, University of Southampton, examining unique signatures within the tumour microenvironment that can be targeted for therapy. He developed an interest in a new class of adjuvants that target the Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) pathway, which have opened up avenues to reprogram the tumour microenvironment and curb loco-regional immunosuppression.
He told us, "I am also interested in understanding the molecular basis of immune regulation by naturally occurring alternatively-spliced soluble isoforms of crucial immunomodulatory receptors (such as CTLA-4, 4-1BB, PD-1).
"I am very much looking forward to working with my new colleagues in the MRC Centre for Drug Safety Science to better understand how modulation of these immune receptors in cutting-edge cancer therapy can also drive adverse drug reactions."