Title:
The role of Vav1 and Vav2 in TCR signaling pathways in negative selection and apoptosis
Project management at the University of Würzburg:
Participating scientists:
Abstract:
The research of Prof. Fischer’s group is focused on the analysis of intracellular signal transduction pathways which regulate differentiation and activation of immune cells. Recently, this work defined the role of an important signaling protein in T cells called Vav1. Vav1 regulates signaling pathways that link T cell antigen receptor (TCR) activation to the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton leading to TCR capping. This process is required for the induction of T cell proliferation, IL-2 production and T cell selection during development of thymocytes. In the last years, it became clear that disregulation of antigen receptor activation could lead to uncontrolled growth of lymphocytes and the development of autoreactive T cells leading to autoimmunity. Defining the role Vav1 plays in T cell signaling pathways will lead to a greater understanding of the molecular basis of autoimmune disorders and other T cell related diseases.
Key words:
Immune system
Rho-GTPases
Guanin Nucleotide Exchange Factors (GEFs)
Vav
Projekt period: from 06.1998 to 06.2000
Funding institution:
Sonstige Stiftung ( Fritz-Thyssen Stiftung ) ,Granting date: 29.06.1998
Publications: