Characterisation of lymphocytes and cytokines in healthy and diseased koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) using cell-type-specific monoclonal antibodies

This thesis is a step forward in developing scientific tools and methods to study the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) immune system in health and disease. Koala numbers are declining for multiple reasons, the most significant of which is infectious disease. The antibodies developed from this thesis have been successfully used to identify cell populations that play key roles in the host immune system. Furthermore, the antibody 'toolbox' developed in this thesis can now be used to monitor population health, develop prognostic indicators, evaluate vaccine studies and increase our understanding of comparative immunology