Deciphering microbial communication

Every surface of the body harbors distinct communities of commensal microbes, known as microbiota, that promote the immune system and other bodily functions. In turn, the immune system modulates the composition of these microorganisms and segregates them by sustaining barrier tissue function. This dialog between the microbiota and the host is of particular importance for specialized immune cells termed innate lymphocytes, which predominantly localize in barrier tissues and have been increasingly recognized for their diverse roles in physiology.

The Constantinides Lab studies how microbes influence the development and function of innate lymphocytes and the mechanism by which these immune cells reciprocally regulate the microbiota. We are developing targeted approaches to modulate these interactions and generating innovative therapies for the treatment of infectious diseases, autoimmunity, and cancer.