Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious diseases

Autoimmunity and vascular inflammation

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Group leader

Angelo Manfredi

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Inflammation, a homeostatic response triggered by microbial components and tissue damage, is crucial for maintaining health. Abnormalities in cellular clearance, including the phagocytic clearance of dead cells and debris, contribute to autoimmune disorders' onset and progression. Vascular inflammation perpetuates a damaging cycle, attracting and activating inflammatory leukocytes, exacerbating tissue damage.

Research activity

Our group focuses on unraveling the molecular intricacies underpinning inflammation and autoimmunity. We investigate the role of endogenous adjuvants, DAMPs (Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns) or alarmins, and humoral innate immunity in sustaining inflammatory responses. Identifying key signals that dictate response persistence is paramount. Our research delves into platelets' pivotal role in maintaining vessel integrity and their responsiveness to environmental cues. Additionally, we explore the peritoneal environment as a model to study cell-to-cell interactions. We aim to identify novel targets for immune interventions to restore homeostasis and mitigate inflammatory damage. Indeed, amidst the plethora of signals generated during inflammation, only a few determine whether the response persists. Signals vital for organismal homeostasis represent intricate targets for immune interventions. Moreover, these signals are often hijacked in situations such as neoplastic lesion growth and metastatic spread, offering potential insights for cancer treatment strategies. Through interdisciplinary efforts, we strive to unravel the complex interplay of molecular pathways driving inflammatory diseases, ultimately improving therapeutic interventions and patient outcomes.

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