"Fate-defining encounter of a T lymphocyte." -- Dr. Elisseeva Olga

Internal Seminar: Olga Elisseeva, Group Leader, Cell Signal Unit (Yamamoto Unit)

Title: "Fate-defining encounter of a T lymphocyte."

Abstract: Human immune system has an amazing capability to conquer inner and outer “dangers” of our body, and keep us safe and healthy.  Dealing with a flu or a pimple would be a matter of a few days when the immune system is at its best. But when things get awry, cancer, autoimmunity and allergies are just at the tip of the iceberg of immunological misdeeds.

White blood cells, called T lymphocytes are in constant surveillance mode and always on a stand-by for a fight. The first and the most crucial step in their surveillance mission is formation of a stable contact zone with other immune cells, so-called immune synapse. This allows T cell to achieve the level of activation that will create a cascade of events for their maturation and subsequent “danger” elimination.

I will show how Hedgehog signaling pathway, by non-canonical means, controls T lymphocyte signaling. It utilizes heterotrimeric G proteins at immune synapse that serves as a signaling center for this pathway.

This work has a potential implication for development anti-cancer vaccines and anti-cancer drugs that target Hedgehog pathway, for transplantation-related disease, and autoimmunity. Join the talk to have a glimpse on human T lymphocytes!

Refreshments will be served afterwards. We hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Internal Seminar Organizing Committee: