From apoptotic cell sensing to an innate memory response: a new aspect of Kupffer cell function (P02*)

• Subject Area: Immunology
• Term: from 2018 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 80750187

Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic disease caused by infection with the parasite Schistosoma. Upon infection, phagocytic macrophages in the liver, named Kupffer cells (KCs), acquire an anti-inflammatory phenotype which is essential for the initial tissue remodelling. However, at the later stage of infection, an exacerbated KC response is associated with fibrosis development. Here we will investigate whether, by sensing apoptotic cells, KCs can acquire an innate memory capacity, which not only improve tissue healing and fibrotic response, but also confer protection upon second challenge with the parasite.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 841: Liver Inflammation: Infection, Immune Regulation and Consequences
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Project Head: Lidia Bosurgi, Ph.D.