Periodic Reporting for period 4 - TILC (Targeting Innate Lymphoid Cells)
Periodo di rendicontazione: 2021-07-01 al 2022-12-31
TILC was designed to explore the biology of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) at multiple levels (i.e. from molecules to patients). These cells have recently become the focus of scientific research and their study holds immense potential to improve our understanding of the immune system and revolutionize therapeutic approaches for various diseases. ILCs are a group of immune cells that play a critical role in innate immunity. Unlike adaptive immune cells, such as T cells and B cells, ILCs do not possess antigen-specific receptors. However, they are strategically positioned at barrier surfaces, including the skin, lung, gut, and other mucosal tissues. Their primary function is to rapidly respond to invading pathogens and maintain tissue homeostasis. Research has uncovered the multiple functions of ILCs, ranging from their involvement in early defense against infection to their role in tissue repair and regulation of inflammation. Through the production of a number of cytokines and other signaling molecules, ILCs contribute to immune responses and shape the delicate balance between protection and pathology. In recent years, the importance of ILCs in the context of immune-mediated diseases has become increasingly clear. Dysregulation of ILC subsets has been identified in diseases such as asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, and allergic reactions. Investigating the mechanisms underlying these diseases at the ILC level offers the opportunity to identify new therapeutic targets and develop more personalized treatment approaches to ultimately improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The diverse functional properties and tissue-specific distribution of ILCs make them attractive targets for immunotherapy. In addition, the use of ILCs could provide alternatives to conventional therapies by reducing dependence on immunosuppressive drugs, minimizing side effects, and improving therapeutic efficacy. By exploring the intricacies of ILC biology in more detail, we can open up new therapeutic avenues. Exploring the interactions between ILCs and other immune cells, as well as their interactions with the microbiome, will give us further insight into the development and progression of disease. This knowledge will pave the way for innovative interventions, including targeted immunomodulation, vaccination strategies, and the development of immunotherapies tailored to individual patients. In summary, work on innate lymphoid cells is of paramount importance. These cells represent a fascinating frontier in immunology that is important for both basic research and clinical applications. If we unravel the complexity of ILCs, we have the potential to reshape our understanding of the immune system and improve therapeutic approaches.
The main discoveries made by TILC can be summarized as follows: We have uncovered the links between ILCs and adaptive immune cells (T and B lymphocytes) in both mouse models and humans. If ILCs are critical for immunity under conditions of immunodeficiency, we have discovered that ILCs can be dispensable for immunity under conditions of modern hygiene and medicine when T and B cell immunity is functioning. We have also developed unique experimental models in mice that allow us to reveal the heterogeneity of NK cells and ILC1s under normal and cancer conditions. We have also shown that ILC1S can impair anti-tumor activity.