Research Theme

• Understaning tissue-specific immunty against respiratory infections

Keyword

• Mycobacterial infection
• Respiratory infection
• Mucosal immunity
• T cell response
• Vaccination

Overview of Research

• The lung is essential for gas exchange, but it also constitutes as a mucosal organ constantly exposed to airborne pathogens and environmental particulates. Therefore, pulmonary tissue requires an immune response that is robust yet precisely regulated, as dysregulated immunity contributes to immunopathology and pathogenesis of diverse respiratory diseases, including bacterial and viral infections. To better understand the mechanisms between host defense and immunoregulation within this unique environment, my research employs detailed immunological analyses of T cell responses using both small and large animal models, including non-human primates. Ultimately, this work aims to contribute to the development of novel vaccine modalities, encompassing optimized antigen candidates and adjuvants specifically tailored for mucosal tissues.