Research Areas

Immunological memory is the hallmark of adaptive immunity and is characterized by the prompt and effective response to antigen upon re-exposure, even a long time after initial encounter; memory provides a highly selective mechanism to ensure quick protection upon re-exposure to recurrent pathogens. For example, once generated, B cell memory is remarkably stable upon viral infection (Amanna et al. 2007).
Therefore, a central question is precisely how immunological memory is maintained for such long periods in the absence of repeated antigenic stimulation. In addition, we have little molecular understanding of how memory and naive B cells might differ in their functions, such as their longevity and their prompt differentiation into plasma cells that secrete large amounts of antibodies upon antigen re-exposure. Another important question is how and when memory B cells develop after initial antigen exposure.
Our goals are to answer these questions by utilizing a murine system, which is advantageous in assessing molecular mechanisms using genetic approaches and in performing functional experiments.

Research Subject

1. Regulations in the control of memory B cell development and differentiation.
2. Analysis of common varaiable immunodeficeincy, accompanying memory B cell deficiency

Related links

1. RIKEN Research Center for Allergy and Immunology Website_Laboratories Page