What we do
We leverage the unique biology of pathogens such as viruses and helminths as tools to probe the fundamental mechanisms underlying the development of immunity. Central to our research is an innovative experimental system that models microbial coinfections, enabling us to dissect mechanisms of immunomodulation and identify key determinants of pathogenesis. Our ultimate goal is to translate these mechanistic insights into novel therapeutic strategies, improve vaccine development and to harness the immunomodulatory properties of microbes to improve human health.
Current areas of research
1. Mechanisms of Intestinal Helminth-Mediated Modulation of Antiviral and Vaccine-Induced Immunity
We explore how intestinal helminth parasites impair antiviral defenses and suppress immune responses elicited by vaccination, aiming to elucidate the cellular and molecular pathways involved in this immunomodulation.
2. Dendritic Cell-Mediated Regulation of Immune Responses to Viral Pathogens and Vaccines
We decipher the molecular signals by which dendritic cells interpret pathogen-derived cues to orchestrate adaptive immunity, focusing on the regulation of T cell responses that balance protection and pathology.
3. Role of TNF Superfamily Members in Type 1 and Type 2 Immunity
We investigate the functions of TNF superfamily cytokines and receptors in shaping immune responses during infections with viral pathogens and helminth parasites, aiming to uncover novel regulatory mechanisms that influence disease outcomes.
