TLR9 And The Response To Foreign DNA

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This project is based upon the observation that the mammalian immune system can distinguish between its own genetic material (DNA) and the DNA of infectious agents such as bacteria. This has implications for understanding how the immune system copes with infection, and also for design of new therapies and vaccines. Our central aim is to define how the recognition system for foreign DNA works. The cells that respond most vigorously to foreign DNA are large white blood cells called macrophages. We are investigating how a key protein that is required for these responses functions and what genes it turns on. The type of immune responses initiated by foreign DNA may be useful in treatment of allergies and cancer, and for improving vaccinations.