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Content archived on 2024-05-29

Mechanisms and consequences of iNKT cell stimulation by glycolipid antigens from Sphingomonas bacteria

Objective

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells have been implicated in diverse immune reactions, especially in the early phases, due to their rapid acquisition of effector functions. In contrast to conventional T cells, which recognise protein particles, iNKT cells recognise synthetic glycolipids, i.e. sugars linked to fatty acids.

However, only very recently have natural antigens for iNKT cells been identified in Sphingomonas bacteria and iNKT cell deficient mice have a greatly delayed bacteria clearance. This finding allows us, for the first time, to explore the significance of the antigen-specific reactivity of iNKT cells in the context of microbial infections.

The aim of this project is to determine how iNKT cells and the antigens they recognise are involved in the protective response to Sphingomonas bacteria. This involves the investigation of the kinetics and mechanisms of the anti-microbial immune response following bacterial challenge. Furthermore the processing and presentation of bacterial derived iNKT cel l antigens will be followed, and the interaction of iNKT cells with the respective antigen-presenting cells will be investigated.

In addition the long-term effects of natural bacterial antigens on iNKT cell functions will be examined. Results acquired with the model pathogen Sphingomonas will foster investigations with other pathogens bearing iNKT cell specific antigen. This work will deepen our understanding of iNKT cell biology and function, particular during microbial infections.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

FP6-2005-MOBILITY-6
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Funding Scheme

OIF - Marie Curie actions-Outgoing International Fellowships

Coordinator

UNIVERSIT??TSKLINIKUM BONN F??R DEN FACHBEREICH MEDIZIN DER UNIVERSIT??T BONN
EU contribution
No data
Total cost
No data

Participants (1)