In this discussion, Dr. Laura Mackay, a Professor at the Peter Doherty Institute, dives into her groundbreaking research on tissue-resident memory T cells. She highlights their role in cancer therapy and collaborates with Pfizer to explore new treatment targets. The conversation uncovers intriguing links between sleep and cancer metastasis, alongside how gut metabolites aid nerve repair. Additionally, Mackay sheds light on T cell exhaustion and the significance of effective communication in academic and industry collaborations.