The focus of this laboratory is on how the immune system recognizes foreign antigens and microbes. We have a long-standing interest and expertise in human T cell receptors and their ligands, in particular superantigens. We are also interested in human diseases as models for understanding the immune system. Examples are autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis), infectious diseases (HIV, Herpes viruses, Toxic Shock Syndrome due to bacterial superantigen toxins), and immune recognition and rejection of cancer cells.

Current projects examine deficient immunity in older individuals and how this can be corrected. A mouse model of melanoma is being used. We can immunize mice such that they are protected against this aggressive cancer. Although old mice lack a proper response to the usual vaccine we have developed better vaccines that work efficiently in old animals. This has implications for all vaccines given to the elderly and infirm.