Research

The process of maturation, differentiation and maintenance of the immune and nervous systems is determined, among others, by tyrosine phosphorylation of cellular proteins, which is intricately balanced by two opposing enzymes: protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) and tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Alterations in these enzymes lead to a variety of immunological and neurological diseases (for example, immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, atopic diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases). In light of these developments, we focus our research on identification and functional characterization of PTPs and their target molecules that are critically involved in the regulation of activation, growth and death of cells in the two highly differentiated systems. We hope molecular mechanisms defined by our effort may serve as a means of the intervention of pathological conditions.

Outline of Projects

Our current research concerns elucidation of the following issues:

1. Lymphocyte signaling
2. Mast cell regulation
3. Regulation of neuronal function

More on our research

Staff