Infection Immunology

Infectious diseases pose a major burden on the healthcare systems, particularly in developing countries. Tuberculosis, caused by the species in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, is the leading cause of death due to an infectious agent, just behind HIV/AIDs. Despite the variety of diagnostic and treatment methods available, challenges still exist in the elimination of mycobacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis. Moreover, the efforts of the healthcare systems are thwarted by the development of drug-resistant strains. This poses the need for further research in reliable, quick, and easy-to-use diagnostics; novel treatment options; as well as effective monitoring of patients under therapy.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D), an autoimmune disease characterized by a lack of insulin secretion due to the partial or complete destruction of the pancreatic islet cells, is increasing in incidence worldwide. The destruction of the cells is believed to be a result of environmental (infections/vaccinations) or genetic factors. However, the primary trigger for the onset of Type 1 diabetes as well as the underlying immunological mechanisms remain elusive.

Our research interest primarily focuses on understanding the immune pathways responsible for disease pathogenesis. A special focus is on immune biomarkers and their potential to be used in the clinical translation of infectious and autoimmune diseases, particularly tuberculosis and type 1 diabetes.