Immunobiology —
Research Group Prof. Dr. Burkhard Ludewig
The research group led by Prof. Dr. Burkhard Ludewig deals with key issues in immunobiological research. The research topics include the immune defence of infectious agents, tumour immunology and cardioimmunology. Particular focus is given to the interaction between fibroblasts and immune cells during organ development and in the context of various inflammatory diseases. The aim of the research projects is to decipher fundamental mechanisms of immune regulation and to develop innovative approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of immune-mediated diseases.
Current research activities
The research database of HOCH Health Ostschweiz provides insight into Prof. Dr. Ludewig's research activities. A selection of current projects is provided below.
Immunological mechanisms of myocarditis
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle caused by the immune system, in which T helper cells play a central role. The "CardiacStroma" project, funded by the European Research Council (ERC Advanced Grant), is investigating the molecular mechanisms of interaction between immune cells and fibroblasts and other cell types in inflamed heart tissue. The aim of this project is to improve diagnosis and develop new therapeutic approaches for inflammatory processes in the heart muscle.
Financing: European Research Council (ERC)
Interaction of fibroblasts and immune cells in the lymph node
Lymph nodes are the control hubs of the immune system. The activation and communication of immune cells in lymph nodes is regulated by fibroblasts. Spreading tumour cells (known as metastases) can disrupt the interaction between fibroblasts and immune cells, thereby weakening the immune defence against the tumour. This project investigates certain molecular signalling pathways and develops methods that target these structures, with the aim to restore communication between fibroblasts and immune cells. The aim of the project is to strengthen the immune response to cancer and contribute to the development of new therapies.
Financing: Swiss National Science Foundation
Clinical studies on T-cell activity in patients with acute and chronic myocarditis
In this project, new immunological and molecular methods will be used to identify characteristic patterns of immune cell activation in patients with acute or chronic myocarditis. Patients from the University Hospital Zurich and HOCH Health Ostschweiz with these diseases will be included in the study. The translational approach will enable new findings from basic research to be applied in medical practice. The comprehensive characterisation of patients can improve the diagnosis of myocarditis and therapy decisions can be better adapted to the course of the disease in individual patients.
Financing: Swiss National Science Foundation
Prof. Dr. Burkhard Ludewig is Head of the Medical Research Centre at the Cantonal Hospital of St.Gallen, leads the Laboratory of Immunobiology and works at the Heart Centre at the University Hospital Zurich.
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