Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pharmacology

VACCINATION, PATHOGEN-HOST INTERACTIONS

The recent COVID19 pandemy demonstrated that mRNA vaccination is a viable alternative of the classical vaccination approaches. The mRNA vaccines are at least as effective as the available alternatives (inactivated virus, recombinant protein, synthetic peptides of recombinant adenoviruses) in generating a robust immune response, while its flexibility allows for „chasing” the mutants arising during the pathogen/host interaction. As collaborators of the National Biotechnology Laboratory, we participate in the development of mRNA vaccines targeting the African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV). Our approach is multi-dimensional analysis of the cell response evoked by different antigen/adjuvant combinations and vaccination protocols. In a related new project, we work on identifying “non-canonical” receptors of COVID19.

TUMOR IMMUNOLOGY

Tumor cells are in intricate connection with their environment. Beside the malignant cells, tumors are composed of connective tissue matrix, vasculature and infiltrating immune cells. Malignant cells might be recognized and eliminated by the immune system („immune surveillance”). On the other hand, established tumors may re-program the immune cells, as well as the endothelium and connective tissue of the tumor mass, resulting in a tumor-supporting, immunosuppressive and pro-angiogenic environment. Our aim is understanding this complex interaction.

PRECLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

We have set up a wide array of tissue culture-based test systems, as well as animal models, for testing drug candidates and natural compounds. We use models of autoimmunity (autoimmune diabetes, experimental allergic encephalomyelitis /EAE/, experimental psoriasis), immunoassays (DTH, CTL, NK, phagocytosis and cytokine assays), as well as in vivo and in vitro models of inflammation, pain and analgesia.