Peter Csurhes

Peter Csurhes is a Senior Research Officer at the UQ Centre for Clinical Research and a key figure in the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Queensland. With a 30-year career focused on multiple sclerosis (MS) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) interactions, he has transitioned from preclinical studies (with Emeritus Professor Michael Pender) to leading clinical trials for progressive MS immunotherapy. Collaborations span QIMR Berghofer, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, and commercial partners.

His research bridges immunology and neurosciences, with specific interests in:

• EBV-specific T cell therapies for MS
• Autoantigen reactivity in demyelinating diseases
• Neuroimmune interactions in Guillain-Barre syndrome and CIDP
• HLA-KIR receptor genetics in autoimmune neuropathies
• Genetic polymorphisms in MS progression

The 15 most recent publications (2012-2021) reveal consistent focus on EBV immunology, T cell responses, and neuroinflammatory mechanisms. Clinical applications include phase I trials for autologous T cell therapy and investigations into NK cell roles in autoimmune neuropathies. Current funding (2023-2027) from NHMRC MRFF and United States Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs supports EBV-MS pathogenesis studies using humanized mouse models.

Additional contributions include malaria vaccine immunology research and part-time work on EBV-related cancers at QIMR-Berghofer. Available contact: p.csurhes@uq.edu.au