The maintenance and function of lymphocytes in the skin

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The immune system is responsible for our protection against invading microorganism such as bacteria and viruses. An initial response is directed against conserved molecules found in many microorganisms without building up long-term protection. This is mediated by cells of the innate immune system. If clearance of the pathogen fails, a more sophisticated response, highly selective against a microorganism in particular and resulting in lifelong protection, is initiated by cells of the adaptive immune system. The latter mainly comprises two types of white blood cells, B and T lymphocytes. However, in recent years an intermediate group of cells has been discovered which do not possess the sophistication of T and B lymphocytes, but do share many of their functional capacities and are derived from the same precursor cells; the innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). These ILCs are a heterogenous collection of cells; each group characterised by particular functional capacities, and make a major contribution to immunity. This project aims to provide insight into particular groups of ILCs found in tissues associated with the intestinal tract. We focus on how these cells develop and contribute to various aspects of (aberrant) immunity.

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