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Inaugural Lecture: Professor Robert Allaker

20 March 2013

Time: 5:00pm
Venue: Perrin Lecture Theatre, Blizard Building, Newark Street, Whitechapel

Beware of the Plaque

Robert Allaker, Professor of Mucocutaneous Microbiology

In health, a balance exists between the microorganisms found within dental plaque and our immune system. However, if this relationship breaks down disease may occur. Innate immunity, which includes macrophage activity and the action of antimicrobial peptides, is at the front line of oral defence.Evidence also exists to link oral and general health, for example, an association between periodontal disease and pregnancy complications. Novel antimicrobial strategies, including the use of nanotechnology, have enabled the development of more effective products to control plaque accumulation. This talk will highlight Prof Allaker’s contributions to the field of oral microbiology and immunology.

Rob Allaker graduated from the University of the West of England, Bristol in 1982 with a BSc (Hons) in Applied Biological Sciences, which included a year with AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals. He remained in Bristol to undertake a PhD on the production of inflammatory compounds by skin and oral bacteria. In 1986, he joined the Royal Veterinary College as a Wellcome Trust Research Fellow to explore the use of bacterial interference in the control of staphylococcal skin disease. He then joined Queen Mary as a lecturer in 1992, where he continued his academic career and received the title of Professor of Mucocutaneous Microbiology in October 2011.

A reception with drinks, food and live jazz will follow the lecture in the Old Library, Garrod Building.

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