Description:

The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University's Tumor Environment and Metastasis Program and the Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-Based Center present:

Interleukin-27 and Lag3: Factors Shaping Regulatory T Cell Functions in Inflammation and Beyond

Booki Min, DVM, PhD
Professor of Microbiology-Immunology
Northwestern University
Feinberg School of Medicine

The Min laboratory studies mechanisms underlying Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cell development and functions. Treg cells are prominent active regulators of immunity and tolerance. Defects in Treg cell generation or function result in uncontrolled systemic autoimmune inflammation. Increasing evidence suggests that Treg cell functions can be compromised under certain inflammatory conditions, and such dysregulation is thought to contribute to chronic inflammatory conditions. In tumor immunity, Tregs are significant barriers interfering with successful anti-tumor immunity. The lab previously identified the IL-27/Lag3 axis in modulating Treg’s ability to control inflammation. Using genetic and murine chronic inflammation models, the lab currently investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Lag3 regulates the functions. Therefore, defining cellular and molecular factors that modulate Treg functions has broad implications for both inflammation and tumors.