Immunogenetics Immunogenetics Immunogenetics or immungenetics is the branch of medical genetics that explores the relationship between the immune system and genetics. Autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, are complex genetic traits which result from defects in the immune system. Identification of genes defining the immune defects may identify new target genes for therapeutic approaches. Alternatively, genetic variations can also help to define the immunological pathway leading to disease. Its origin is usually attributed to Edward Jenner, who discovered in 1796 that cowpox, or vaccinia, induced protection against human smallpox. It took two centuries before the World Health Organization announced in
Caleb Jenner Caleb Jenner Caleb Joshua Jenner (9 December 1830 – 27 June 1890) was a politician in colonial Victoria (Australia), member of the Victorian Legislative Council. Jenner was born in Alfriston, Sussex, England, the son of Thomas Jenner and his wife Sarah, "née" Ralf. He came to Victoria in 1850, and engaged in commercial pursuits at Geelong. Jenner held the office of president of the first reform league, established for the purpose of protecting native Industries. Jenner represented the South Western Province in the Legislative Council for more than twenty years, being returned in March 1863 in opposition to Charles Griffith,