University of Kentucky · Microbiology & ImmunologyBrain Immunity and Parasitic Infections Lab
Yasuhiro Suzuki · Lexington, Kentucky
Research Focus
Dr. Yasuhiro Suzuki's lab focuses on understanding how the immune system in the brain protects against infections from parasites, especially Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause severe complications in AIDS patients. They study the role of specialized brain cells called microglia in producing a signaling molecule called IFN- that helps activate immune responses. The goal is to find ways to prevent reactivation of the infection and develop potential vaccines for those at risk.
ToxoplasmosismicrogliaT cell immunityinterferonAIDSvaccine developmentimmunologyinnate immunityCNS infections
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the role of microglial IFN- in recruiting immune cells to fight Toxoplasma gondii
AIM 02Explore how microglial IFN- enhances T cell responses against Toxoplasma infections
AIM 03Identify Toxoplasma antigens that activate protective CD8+ T cells
AIM 04Develop new strategies for vaccination in HIV and Toxoplasma co-infected patients
AIM 05Understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune response to Toxoplasma gondii.
Skills the Lab Values
animal handlingmouse modelsimmunohistochemistrycell culturePCRflow cytometryWestern blot analysisRNA sequencingtransgenic mouse technology
Output against the department
Publications763top 2% of dept.10th of 486
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations20ktop 19% of dept.94th of 486
this lab
most citedleast cited
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