Of particular interest is the recently identified family of Toll-like receptors, which plays an essential role in innate immune recognition in both mammals and insects. We are interested in molecular mechanisms that translate the signals recognized by Pattern Recognition Receptors into signals that control the activation of naive lymphocytes and their differentiation into effector cells.
Inflammation is a normal component of the host response to infection.
However, excessive inflammation, or inflammation in the absence of infection, may lead to a variety of pathological states, including autoimmunity and allergy. We are studying the cellular and molecular basis of inflammatory disorders that are caused by the dysfunctions of the innate immune system. Medzhitov, R., P. Preston-Hurlburt, and C.A. Janeway, Jr., A human homologue of the Drosophila Toll protein signals activation of adaptive immunity. Kopp, E.B. and R. Medzhitov, The Toll-receptor family and control of innate immunity. Curr Opin Immunol.