Dispersion of Inflammation, Protection and Regeneration of the Lung Barrier Function

In this subproject, the role of pulmonary dendritic cell subpopulations in the destruction of the lung barrier will be analysed in preclinical pneumoccal pneumonia models.

The aim is to identify those inflammatory mediators via which dendritic cells contribute to pulmonary leakage after infection. The identified candidate molecules will then be analysed in corresponding knockout models and via pharmacological inhibitors with regard to their relevance for the DC-dependent lung damage. In addition, the anti-inflammatory, inflammation resolvent and alveolar repair mediating capacity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) will be evaluated in animal models and ventilated/perfused human lung organ models.

The long-term aim of this project is to establish the preclinical and logistical requirements for the intended clinical use of MSC in patients with late-stage ARDS.

Scientific Head:
Prof. Dr. Ulrich A. Maus

Cooperating Partners in DZL: Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Biomedical Research in Endstage And ObsTructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) Munich, Translational Lung Research Centre Heidelberg (TLRC-H), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC)