Research

We investigate the type 3 intermediate filament protein vimentin and its role in pulmonary health and disease. Vimentin is expressed in macrophages, where it plays a critical role in innate immune signaling. In the absence of vimentin, inflammation and its associated tissue injury are greatly reduced. This raises intriguing clinical implications for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. 

Vimentin is a key protein in the distal pole complex of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Infection by influenza A virus induces robust Treg proliferation and activation to facilitate tissue repair. We investigate whether loss of vimentin in Tregs augments their function, promoting lung recovery following influenza. 

Explore Our Areas of Research

• cGAS-STING
  The cGAS-STING Pathway in Inflammatory Lung Disease
• Inflammasome
  Role of Vimentin in NLRP3 and NLRC4 Inflammasome Activation
• Regulatory T Cells
  Role of Vimentin in Regulatory T Cell Function
• Pediatric Influenza
  Influenza A Virus Infection and Innate Immunity in Young Children

See also T32 Training Program in Lung Science.