T Cell
Development Laboratory

MEMBERS

1. Development of Innate T cells

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT), mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT), and γδ T cells are innate T cells. They acquire memory phenotype in the thymus and share similar biological characteristics such as tissue residency and early effector function. To understand theirin-depth biology, we investigate their developmental programs in the thymus using single-cell RNAseq combined with TCR clonotyping method.

2. Biology of IgE producing B cells

Dysregulated production of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies is pathogenic and induces allergy or anaphylaxis. However, its natural sources are not well defined. In BALB/c mice, serum IgE levels are spontaneously elevated, and we previously showed they are dependent on IL-4 produced by NKT (natural killer T) cells. Currently, we are investing in the ontogeny of natural IgE producing B cells and their roles in mediating allergic disorders in the gut.

3. Disease model - Alopeca Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease caused by abnormal Th1 response, which causes transient or permanent hair loss. Our lab is using C3H mouse model to investigate the role of Tregs (regulatory T cell) and γδ T cells in its pathogenesis. For the treatment, we are testing IL-2 cytokine antibody complex to activate Tregs selectively.