Immuno-Dermatology

Georg Stary, Immuno-Dermatology

We focus on the characterization of host-pathogen interactions in the skin and on mucosal membranes. The combination of high-level clinical research with human tissue as well as mouse models are ideally suited to successfully translate research results to clinics.

GPI-anchored proteins in skin inflammation and T-cell deficiency 
GPI-anchored proteins are binding structures for many molecules and are relevant to prevent complement-dependent lysis of cells. In a patient with a subtype of T cells lacking GPI-anchored proteins, we aim to unravel the cause-effect relation of GPI-anchored proteins and T cell deficiency. We will further study the migration capacities of patient-derived T cells in collaboration with Loïc Dupré and the level on which T cell progenitors are affected by certain deficiencies in collaboration with Dietmar Herndler-Brandstetter.

Clinical studies to translating discoveries into therapeutic strategies 
We are currently performing an innovative clinical study with a mTOR-inhibitor in patients with progressive chronic sarcoidosis and cutaneous involvement, which is a rare variant of sarcoidosis. In collaboration with Christoph Bock’s lab we are analyzing patient samples by single-cell RNA sequencing at various time points before and after treatment periods.

Precision medicine and pathomechanisms of clinical complications in inherited and acquired epidermolysis bullosa 
DEBRA is an international networking organization to ensure patients with inherited epidermolysis bullosa the best available medical care and to support research initiatives to improve treatment of epidermolysis bullosa. This group of rare monogenetic skin conditions is characterized by extremely fragile skin and recurrent blister formation, resulting from minor mechanical trauma. We are establishing a cohort of patients with epidermolysis bullosa at our department. Chronic wounds are a major clinical challenge in this patient group. We will analyze immune cells and the cutaneous microbiome in acute and chronic wounds in inherited epidermolysis bullosa patients by state-of-the-art sequencing technology in cooperation with the Bock group.