Our Vision
Scientists of project area A analyze new molecular targets and cellular pathways (e.g. T cell receptor & chimeric antigen receptor transfer, multifunctional antibodies, minor histocompatibility antigen-specific T cells) to augment graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) responses and assess them in in vivo models (wherever reasonable). In project area B, scientists examine basic pathomechanisms of graft-versus-host-reactivity and develop new strategies for the prevention and/or therapy of this transplant complication. Here, the specific modulation of T cell signal transduction pathways is explored, regulatory molecular and cellular networks within innate and adaptive immune compartments are examined as well as GvHD-promoting co-factors, such as inflammatory pathways and microbiome alterations. Strategies aimed to strengthen GvL effects are always tested for their influence on GvHD and vice versa. The most promising strategies evolving from these studies shall be tested in future clinical trials to ultimately improve the safety and efficacy of allo-HSCT significantly.
