Gillian Dekkers
Papers
1
Total Citations
46
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1
About
Gillian Dekkers is a leading researcher in the field of immunology and molecular evolution, with a primary focus on the development of novel antibody-based strategies against infectious diseases, particularly HIV-1. Her most-cited work, "Molecular Evolution of Broadly Neutralizing Llama Antibodies to the CD4-Binding Site of HIV-1" (2014, 46 citations), represents a landmark contribution to the quest for an HIV vaccine. In this study, Dekkers and her team demonstrated that llamas, when immunized, can produce heavy chain-only antibodies (HCAbs) capable of broad and potent neutralization of HIV-1—a feat that had eluded traditional immunization approaches in humans and other animals. By tracing the molecular evolution of these antibodies, she provided critical insights into how the immune system can be coaxed to target conserved sites on the virus, such as the CD4-binding site. This work has not only advanced our understanding of antibody maturation but also opened new avenues for designing immunogens that could elicit similar responses in humans. Dekkers’ research continues to shape the development of next-generation HIV prevention strategies, underscoring her impact as a pioneer in antibody engineering and viral immunology.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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