Philippa Marrack

File:Philippa Marrack

File:Philippa Marrack", Nature Medicine, v.10, n.12.

Philippa Marrack

Born	1945
Birth place	Ewell, Surrey, England
Nationality	British-American
Known for	T-cell biology
Awards	Lasker Award, Wolf Prize in Medicine

Philippa Marrack (born 1945) is a prominent immunologist known for her pioneering research in the field of T-cell biology. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of the immune system, particularly in the areas of T-cell development and the mechanisms of autoimmunity.

Early Life and Education

Philippa Marrack was born in Ewell, Surrey, England, in 1945. She pursued her undergraduate and doctoral studies at the University of Cambridge, where she developed a strong foundation in biochemistry and immunology. Her early academic achievements set the stage for a distinguished career in scientific research.

Career and Research

Marrack's career in immunology began in earnest when she moved to the United States, where she joined the faculty at the University of California, San Diego. It was here that she began her collaboration with her husband and fellow immunologist, John W. Kappler. Together, they made groundbreaking discoveries about the nature of T-cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response.

T-cell Receptor Discovery

One of Marrack's most significant contributions to immunology was the elucidation of the structure and function of the T-cell receptor (TCR). The TCR is a complex protein on the surface of T-cells that recognizes antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. Marrack and Kappler's work in this area helped to clarify how T-cells distinguish between self and non-self, a fundamental aspect of immune system function.

Superantigens and Autoimmunity

Marrack also conducted pioneering research on superantigens, a class of antigens that can activate a large number of T-cells, leading to an overwhelming immune response. Her studies on superantigens have provided insights into the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

Current Work

Currently, Philippa Marrack is a faculty member at National Jewish Health and the University of Colorado Denver. Her research continues to focus on the intricacies of the immune system, with an emphasis on understanding how T-cells develop and function.

Awards and Honors

Philippa Marrack's contributions to science have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. She is a recipient of the prestigious Lasker Award and the Wolf Prize in Medicine. Her work has also earned her membership in the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Personal Life

Marrack is married to John W. Kappler, with whom she has collaborated extensively throughout her career. Together, they have made significant contributions to the field of immunology.

Also see

• Immunology
• T-cell receptor
• Autoimmune disease
• Superantigen
• John W. Kappler