Research Overview.

T cells are arguably the most diverse cell-type in the body. Each T cell bears a unique T cell receptor capable of antigen recognition and any T cell can assume a vast array of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions. We develop and apply technologies to study T cells at a single-cell level and to study their antigen specificities. Our laboratory investigates T cell immunity in cancer and in autoimmunity, which are diseases of underactive and overactive immunity, respectively. Many mechanisms of immune regulation are therefore shared in these diseases. In cancer, we are particularly interested in understanding how TCR specificity dictates T cell function, identifying tumor-specific T cells, and developing T cell-based therapies. We are also studying T cell function in intestinal autoimmune diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease. We are working to understand triggers of T cell inflammation in intestinal autoimmunity, and how these triggers ultimately culminate in intestinal damage.