Our immune system protects us against infectious diseases and cancer. Its failure to function properly can result in unpleasant consequences. However, if the immune system unintentionally works too well then autoimmune diseases can develop where the immune system attacks the body, as is the case with rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. In the Institute for Chemical Immunology (ICI) the top in Immunology and Chemistry will join forces to develop a new discipline: Chemical Immunology. The aim is to use chemistry to understand immune diseases and to find solutions for situations where the immune system fails or is too active. This combination of disciplines can bring about a radical change in the approach to autoimmune diseases, infections and cancer.

• immune diseases