Lehr- und Forschungsgebiet für Biochemie und Molekulare Immunologie - Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Immunology

Univ.-Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Michael Huber (Abteilungsleiter)

Kontakt - Sekretariat (Fr. M. Becker)

Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen

Tel.: +49 241 80-88717
Fax: +49 241 80-82428
E-Mail: mobecker@ukaachen.de
Web: www.ukaachen.de/sites/lfg/bcmi

Our research interests deal with the mechanisms of cellular reception and propagation of biological signals as well as the respective modulating factors. Using mast cells as our model system, we study the regulated secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators (e.g. histamine, proteases, and cytokines) and address the question of which signaling pathways determine qualitative as well as quantitative aspects of cellular activation. Activation of mast cells plays a central role for the initiation and development of allergic diseases. This process is induced by multivalent allergens that cross-link IgE molecules which are bound to the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεR1) on the surface of mast cells. Newly identified regulators of mast cell activation serve as potential targets for pharmacological intervention in allergic diseases. In this respect, we have identified the SH2-containing inositol 5-phosphatase, SHIP1, as a major gatekeeper of mast cell activation.

In recent years, additional roles (beneficial ones as well as detrimental ones) for mast cells have become obvious. For instance, mast cells protect from bacterial peritonitis, are involved in the development of certain autoimmune disorders (like arthritis and bullous pemphigoid), and contribute significantly to neurofibromatosis and atherosclerosis. Different receptor systems, like the receptor tyrosine kinase, c-kit (CD117), and the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4 = receptor for lipopolysaccharide) are central for differential mast cell activity in health and disease. The analysis of respective signaling mechanisms represents additional topics in our Department.