A7: Characterization and mathematical modeling of the STAT6-regulated micro milieu in response to Nippostrongylus (N.) brasiliensis infections

A7: Characterization and mathematical modeling of the STAT6-regulated
micromilieu in response to Nippostrongylus (.) brasiliensis infections

Helminth infections affect about 1/3 of the world population and to date there are no helminth-specific vaccines available. IL-4/IL-13-induced activation of the transcription factor STAT6 in non-hematopoetic cells plays a critical role for worm expulsion during infection with gastrointestinal helminths. We will investigate how expression of STAT6-regulated genes in different cell types cause changes of the immunomicrotope (mucus production, pH, tissue tonicity, short chained fatty acids) in skin, lung and intestine. We will further determine how the worm transcriptome changes during colonization of the small intestine in wild-type versus STAT6-deficient mice. In close collaboration with Vasily Zaburdaev (part B of this project) we will use mathematical modeling to address changes of individual parameters on tissue migration and expulsion of N. brasiliensis.

A8_overview