Short description:
1. Targeting RORγt/DHODH signaling in islet autoimmunity and Type 1 Diabetes
2. The role of T cell-specific IL6Rα signaling in maintaining tissue immune homeostasis
Description:
1. We investigate the influence of RORγt/DHODH inhibition on Tregs and different T cell subsets in islet autoimmunity and T1D. Using various in vitro approaches and loss-of-function or T1D mouse models, we dissect the impact on Treg induction and the underlying mechanisms. In collaboration with a biopharmaceutical company, we apply drug candidates targeting these signaling pathways in vivo to different mouse models for T1D to study their effect on autoimmune activation and diabetes progression or prevention.
2. We investigate the crucial role of the high-affinity α-chain of the interleukin 6 receptor (IL6Rα) on CD4+T cells and Foxp3+ Tregs. Using different gain- and loss-of-function mouse models, we dissect the role of the IL6Rα and its complex interplay with other signaling molecules in maintaining Tregs. By that, we investigate how the IL6Rα on T cells contributes to maintaining tissue homeostasis, preventing aberrant immune activation and mediating cross-talk between tissues and immune cells which is important for the function of diabetes-relevant tissues.
Kontaktperson:
Hannah Hipp; Maike Becker – Helmholtz Zentrum München,
Email:
hannah.hipp[ät]helmholtz-muenchen.de