Molecular Immunology

The research emphasis of our Unit is put on the dissection of the mechanisms of how immune cells (leukocytes) receive signals from the environment via cell surface receptors and transmit the obtained information across the plasma membrane in the cell to mount an immune response. For these studies we are identifying and structurally characterizing leukocyte surface receptors, as well as their extracellular, membrane and submembrane ligands. We are studying the receptor - ligand interactions at the molecular level to obtain a mechanistic information on function and signal transduction.

Our final goal is to provide a manual for critical switchboards of signaling pathways of leukocytes. This knowledge is considered to allow the development of novel specific diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to correct abnormal leukocyte reactions in immunological diseases and disorders (including allergy, chronic inflammation, autoimmunity) as well as unwanted leukocyte reactions in clinical interventions such as transplantation.

Details on our research activities and research projects you can find under the menu Research.