GRK 1121: Genetic and Immunologic Determinants of Pathogen-Host-Interactions

The Research Training Group (RTG) intends to work on molecular aspects of the interaction between pathogens and their hosts. Our definition of pathogens comprises viruses, bacteria and eukaryotic parasites. All of these parasites have in common that they evolved intricate mechanisms to enter their host, and to survive and multiply within the presence of an efficient immune system. In spite of these common denominators, research in the disciplines of virology, microbiology and parasitology is still relatively narrowly focused on their ownrespective fields. In an attempt to transgress these boundaries and to emphasize the parasitic life style common to viruses, many bacteria, and eukaryotic parasites, the RTG will deal with model systems from all three disciplines. The proposed research will focus on factors and mechanisms of pathogenicity.