Boosting Lysosomal Function to Improve Host Immunity
In this project, we are focusing on genetic and pharmacological approaches to boost the lysosomal function that are compromised by either disease or by natural aging. Our focus is lung infections and we utilize, cell culture, mouse models and human samples to achieve these aims.
Harnessing Tissue Damage Sensing in the Lung
Tissue damage is an integral part of the host response during infections. Although, we have extensive knowledge on how the host senses the pathogen, it remains to be known how the host senses the tissue damage during infections in the lung. Further, how tissue damage sensing contributes to either protective anti-pathogen immunity or promote tissue damage. Our aim for this project to better understanding the tissue damage sensing and utilize these mechanisms to improve outcomes in the host.
Role of Interferons beyond viral infections
Interferons are molecules that are known to interfere with viral replication thus obtaining the name interferons. Their antiviral mechanisms are well understood. However, our recent studies have investigated their roles in non viral lung pathologies and found their role in controlling inflammatory response in the lung . Our aim of this project is to understand the molecular mechanisms that control the anti-inflammatory functions of type I and type III interferons.