Project Title: Airway inflammation – crosstalk between immune cells and airway epithelium

Project leader: Prof. Dr. Marcus Mall/ PD Dr. Benedikt Fritzsching
(Dept. of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg)

Application deadline: 14.01.2013
Start of PhD project: Feb 2013
Source of Funding: BMBF

Project Description:
Airway inflammation represents a hallmark of major lung diseases including cystic fibrosis, asthma and COPD. Molecular crosstalk between immune and epithelial cells has gained major interest. However precise mechanisms are largely unknown.

We have previously established airway surface dehydration by epithelial dysfunction as a major cause for airway inflammation (1). Moreover we have identified epithelial ion channels critically modulated by immune-derived cytokines (2).  Preliminary data suggest breakdown of immunological tolerance in mice with reduced airway mucus clearance. Peripheral tolerance involves regulatory T cells (3) and other leukocyte subpopulations in the lung.

The PhD student will focus on the cellular basis for immuno-epithelial interactions in vivo and in vitro. The student will unravel alterations of leukocyte subpopulations in an established transgenic mouse model. Epithelial sodium channel overexpression in this mouse model shows severe mucus obstruction (1). Moreover, analysis of immune cells derived factors on epithelial cells in vitro will allow detection of molecular mechanisms. Our preliminary data  show promising candidates for further exploration. The PhD project will be performed at the novel Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg embedded within the German Lung Research Center – a leading national health service initiave (http://www.dzg-lungenforschung.de/) with access to cutting edge technology, weekly journal club, monthly international seminars and active meeting participation. Top students might be eligible for further funding, i.e. by nomination for the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes.

Methods that will be used:
Flow Cytometry, Mouse Lung Function, Confocal Microscopy, Immunohistology, cell Culture and basic molecular biology methods (i.e. quantitative PCR, transient overexpression), Electrophysiology

Collaboration Partners within the Translational Lung Reseach Center Heidelberg include:
University Hospital Heidelberg, DKFZ, EMBL

Profile of candidate’s qualification:
Master degree or state examination, excellent CV, basic training in immunology and/or lung biology, flow cytometry, cell culture and molecular biology are desirable. The enthusiastic candidate should be able to rapidly gain project responsibility, be interested in open discussions with colleagues and supervisors and able to present data on international meetings.

Applications should include CV, letter of motivation, copy of major certificates (university, school), addresses of two referees.

Please apply per email to: Benedikt.Fritzsching@med.uni-heidelberg.de