Immune responses are highly coordinated processes that develop within complex tissue microenvironments. The research in our department aims to decipher mechanisms that govern the development and functions of the immune system, with the objective to develop new strategies to fight infections, cancer and chronic inflammatory diseases. Research teams are working on different aspects of the immune system, focusing on the two components of the immune response, namely innate and adaptive immunity. Scientists are addressing questions such as: How does the immune system develop in embryos, newborns and adults? Why do some diseases emerge? What is the molecular pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases? By using cellular mechanistic models and population immunology cohorts, and working closely with clinical collaborators, our goal is to translate our discoveries into innovative diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic tools for personalized medicine.
Our main recent publications
A resident T cell population mediates immune memory against recurrent bladder infections
A study led by Matthieu Rousseau in Molly Ingersoll’s team uncovered a population of immune cells that are not only necessary, but also entirely sufficient to fight recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI). These memory T cells appear in the bladder after a first UTI and reside there to fight subsequent infections. Importantly, this study shows that rapid antibiotic treatment can limit immune memory, providing a rationale to develop new vaccines or novel immunotherapies to prevent recurrent UTI.
Science Immunology, May 26, 2023.
Immunotherapy as a long-range weapon against tumors
CAR T cells represent a promising new immunotherapy for treating some blood cancers. Using cutting-edge microscopy techniques, Philippe Bousso’s team observed in real time how these cells act against cancer cells, discovering that most of the killing events mediated by a subset of CAR T cells occur without direct contact but at a distance, through the production of IFN-γ by the CAR T cells. They then showed that sensitivity to IFN-γ is a key factor for predicting the success of an immunotherapy treatment.
Nature Cancer, May 29, 2023.
How the brain communicates with our immune system to fight infection
The immune system is a key player to help our body deal with infection, but it does not act alone: our brain is also involved. Gérard Eberl’s team, in collaboration with the department of Neuroscience, identified the cerebral area central to two-directional communication between the brain and immune system: this area integrates inflammatory signals present in the blood and in response releases a neurohormone that will regulate the immune response to infection.
Neuron, August 2, 2023.
Smoking has persistent effects on immunity
This study provides new understanding on the effects of smoking on human health. It shows that smoking is a major contributor to human variability in immune protein secretions. Moreover, the authors showed this effect on adaptive immune responses persists long after individuals quit smoking and is associated with epigenetic memory.
Nature, February 14, 2024.
Innovative neuromuscular blockade reversal agents
Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs), such as rocuronium, relax skeletal muscles to facilitate surgery but lead to anaphylaxis and to complications due to postoperative residual neuromuscular blockade (rNMB). This clinical study identified rocuronium-specific antibodies from allergics, and therapeutically reversed rNMB in vivo, in animal models.
Science Translational Medicine, September 11, 2024.