Cell-cell and virus-cell interactions

Middle size Structural Biology group studying cell surface molecules that regulate the immune system and mediate virus entry into host cells. We investigate protein families linked to immune disorders such as allergic inflammation and asthma. We analyze receptor-ligand interactions related to immune processes, as well as virus binding to cells. In addition, we characterize virus neutralization by humoral immune responses and its correlation with virus entry into cells. Our research has provided key observations regarding immune receptor function, and has identified viral epitopes essential for infection, some of which are targeted by neutralising antibodies. Recently, we started a new research line to implement antibody biotechnology and to generate new therapeutic antibodies against health-relevant viruses. Our multidisciplinary research applies structural (X-ray crystallography), biochemical and cell biology approaches.