B Cells - tolerance and function
We are investigating B cell tolerance and B cell function, and more specifically, how they may regulate or suppress the immune response against a graft. Regulatory B cells are a very exciting and newly discovered cell type that have roles in various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. However, their role in transplantation tolerance has yet to be uncovered. We hope to elucidate the role B cells play in acceptance of transplanted tissues and to investigate ways to use these cells as therapeutics to promote long term graft survival.