We investigate the complex and dynamic interactions between the microbiome and the immune system at both functional and molecular levels. The human body is home to a vast and diverse microbial ecosystem, with which we have co-evolved mutualistic relationships. Our research aims to uncover how commensal and pathogenic microbes influence immune development, regulation, and dysfunction - and how these interactions contribute to the onset and progression of inflammatory and malignant diseases. By bridging basic science with translational approaches, our team seeks to advance the clinical understanding of the microbiome’s role in health and disease and develop microbiome-based therapeutic approaches.
The role of the microbiome in multiple myeloma and treatment outcomes
Multiple myeloma is the second most common malignant blood disorder and is caused by the clonal expansion of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Despite major therapeutic advances, it remains incurable, and infections, driven by disease- and treatment-related immune dysfunction, are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Growing evidence suggests that the gut microbiome may influence how the disease progresses and how patients respond to therapy. Our research explores how individual microbiome signatures shape disease trajectories and treatment outcomes in patients undergoing different therapies, including autologous stem cell transplantation and CAR T cell therapy.
Escherichia coli and its impact on mucosal immunity
Commensal E. coli is a typically harmless and low-abundance gut resident, among the first microbial pioneers to colonize the intestine after birth. Under certain clinical conditions, such as immunosuppression in cancer patients, E. coli can transition into an opportunistic pathogen, causing severe and life-threatening infections. Our research investigates how E. coli shapes the education of the mucosal immune system and influences long-term conditions, such as intestinal inflammation.
The role of mucosal Immunoglobulin (Ig) in maintaining gut microbiota homeostasis
IgA is the dominant antibody at mucosal surfaces, where it shapes the gut microbiome and maintains host-microbe mutualism. During intestinal inflammation, other immunoglobulin isotypes can emerge, potentially interacting with the microbiota and affecting disease outcomes. Using a porcine model with strong translational relevance, we investigate how different immunoglobulins contribute to gut immunity and inflammation in collaboration with experts in pig immunology at TUM (Prof. F. Ebner, Chair for Infection Pathogenesis).