Peter Steinberger - Immune Receptors and T-cell Activation

Research Summary

We are interested in the contribution of cell surface molecules (positive and negative costimulatory molecules) on human T cells and antigen-presenting cells (APC) in immune responses. For our studies we have developed experimental systems that make it possible to efficiently analyse the contribution of individual ligands to T cell activation processes. In addition we are trying to identify novel receptors that regulate the activation of T cells by APC. To achieve this goal we rely on our experience in the generation, expression and screening of cDNA expression libraries. Another focus of our research is the identification of cell surface antigens that are recognized by sera derived from cancer patients, transplant recipients or from stem cell transplanted individuals. For these projects we are developing efficient methodologies to screen retroviral expression libraries with polyclonal antibody preparations like human sera.

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