Our Research
The research led by Lina Herhaus in the research group “Immune Signaling” (IMSI) focuses on understanding how the immune system detects and responds to threats such as infections and resulting inflammation. By exploring the molecular mechanisms that regulate immune signaling pathways, the group aims to uncover how cells maintain protein homeostasis and safeguard against pathogenic challenges. This work has far-reaching implications for public health, as it addresses fundamental questions about how the body combats infections and avoids immune dysfunction.
At the heart of their research is the investigation of post-translational modifications and how these molecular "switches" influence immune signaling and cellular quality control. One of the group’s key aims is to understand how immune cells recognize and degrade misfolded or damaged proteins to ensure cellular health—a process critical for fighting infections and preventing diseases. The group also studies how pathogens exploit or evade these processes to establish infections and how host cells counteract these strategies.
A major focus is the role of autophagy and vesicle trafficking in immune regulation. The team is particularly interested in how these pathways contribute to immune cell activation and pathogen clearance. Using cutting-edge technologies, including proteomics, imaging, and functional genomics, the group investigates the interplay between immune signaling and cellular metabolism. Their research seeks to identify key molecular players, such as the protein IRGQ, which could act as regulators of immune quality control and potential therapeutic targets.
The Immune Signaling Group’s work is highly relevant to society, as it informs the development of new treatments for infectious diseases and inflammatory disorders. By uncovering the mechanisms that underpin immune responses, their research has the potential to drive innovative therapies that harness the immune system for combating diseases. This knowledge could lead to the development of precision medicine approaches, benefiting patients with conditions ranging from chronic infections to tumor growth. In this way, the group contributes to advancing both basic scientific understanding and translational medical research for the betterment of public health.
Newsroom
