With an immunlogy background ( trained in the laboratories of Ivan Roitt, London and Robert Schwartz, Boston) I developed a number of human hybridoma derived autoantibodies for detailed analysis. My colleagues and I have incorporated amino acid sequencing, computer modelling, site directed mutagenesis and experimental models to explore the links between the structure, function and pathogenic consequences of anti dsDNA and anti phospholipid autoantibodies. The Centre For Rheumatology has also developed an international reputation for its work on T and B cell interactions and regulation, cell signalling, analysis of lipid rafts and apoptosis amongst other things. Clinically I have been deeply involved in the development of the BILAG disease activity assessment tool for patients with lupus. I have also been instrumental in developing a dmaage index for patients lupus and simlar tools for patients with myositis and Sjogren's syndome. Our group was also the first to use B cell depletion as a form of treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (now NICE approved) and lupus.