Immune Cell Biology lab
we study immune memory in barrier tissues with a focus on T cell-B cell interactions
Vaccination is the most successful public health intervention for reducing the burden of infectious disease. But there are many infections for which no vaccine is available. To date, most vaccines have been designed empirically as opposed to rationally, suggesting that a deeper understanding of the immune response to pathogens can be used to develop more effective and safer vaccines. Although CD4 T cells are an essential component of host immunity, there are few vaccines that selectively target this compartment. Our lab investigates CD4 T cell responses in barrier tissues, with a focus on T cells that support antibody production by B cells. Using single cell and systems immunology approaches we are addressing the biologic underpinnings and therapeutic potential of mucosal immunity to globally relevant pathogens including influenza and tuberculosis.
