FOR5130 ImmunoChick- Unravelling the avian immune response in the context of infection
The goal of ImmunoChick is to understand the avian immune system, focusing on the adaptive immune response and its interactions with the most relevant pathogens by developing and using novel technologies. The establishment of the TCR repertoire sequencing, MHC peptide identification, generation of MHC tetramers, and the availability of knockout chickens offer unprecedented opportunities to investigate the immune response against important pathogens.
These tools together are uniquely available to this group and will be used to address our overall objective in three specific aims.
- To assess the roles of αβ and γδ T cells in chicken immunity and vaccine responses
- To analyze B cell-mediated immune responses in infection and vaccine protection
- To determine the role of type I and III interferons in shaping (adaptive) immune responses to infection and vaccination in chickens
After a successful first funding period (2021–2025), we were able to secure a second funding period from the DFG. This renewed support not only recognizes the scientific achievements and innovative approaches of our group, but also enables us to further expand our research program. With continued funding, we are now in an excellent position to deepen our understanding of avian immunity, explore new technological frontiers, and translate our findings into impactful advances for both basic science and applied veterinary medicine.
