Stem Cell Biology:
We currently study the functions of a cellular receptor known as CD74—a protein expressed on the membranes of certain blood cells that binds to an immune-regulating molecule referred to as MIF. We found that eliminating of the receptor prevented the death of HSCs, causing them to survive longer and, consequently, to accumulate in larger numbers. In addition, we discovered that stem cells lacking CD74 survived the transplantation process far better than stem cells bearing CD74. Moreover, mice lacking CD74-bearing stem cells also proved better than the controls at surviving and recovering their immune systems after chemotherapy. We therefore suggest that in vitro blocking of CD74 expressed on HSPCs or its ligand MIF may lead to expansion of the stem cells and will improve transplantation protocols. We are now focusing in translating these findings to human patients.
Viral infections:
The characteristics and mechanism of the abnormal cells are still not fully clear. Regulatory B cells (Bregs) are a subset of B cells, which negatively regulates the immune response and secretes Interleukin 10 (IL-10) to induce immune suppression, which inhibits proinflammatory cytokines and supports regulatory T cell differentiation. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a T cell subset that negatively regulates the immune response. Tregs are known to play an essential role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis. They regulate inflammation and tissue repair when reside in non-lymphoid tissues. CD84 is a member of the SLAM family of receptors that are expressed mainly on immune cells and regulate the immune response by homophilic interactions. Our lab has previously shown that the CD84 has an important role in cancer and autoimmunity. It regulates the survival of the cancer cells by mediating the interaction with their microenvironment. In autoimmunity, specifically in the EAE model, CD84 has been shown to induce accumulation of Bregs.
Currently the role of CD84 in Bregs and Tregs development and function during influenza respiratory infection is being investigated.
