Cellular Immunology

The aim of the research is to understand the molecular basis of immunomodulation during chronic helminth infections with particular emphasis on schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis and Th2 immune responses. The group has two field centers where immunoepidemiologic and genetic studies are underway. Laboratory based investigations center around lymphocyte/dendritic cell cultures, cell surface receptors, cytokines and biochemical characterization of parasite molecules with immunomodulatory activity.