Enterococci in ASCT: Indicators of loss of diversity or true GvHD pathogens? (B13)

• Subject Area: Medical Microbiology and Mycology, Hygiene, Molecular Infection Biology ; Hematology, Oncology ; Immunology
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 324392634

Our studies suggest a causal link between enterococci and acute GvHD. Genomic and functional analyses reveal consistent differences between enterococcal strains isolated from ASCT patients and healthy controls, as well as between GvHD and non-GvHD patients. Various strains and associated metabolites and the effects of microbiota transfer will be tested in organoid and animal models. We will also investigate the enterococci translocation into intestinal tissue and their interaction with the immune system, focusing on T and B cell responses both locally in the gut and systemically.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 221: Modulation of graft-versus-host and graft-versus-leukemia immune responses after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• Applicant Institution: Universität Regensburg
• Project Heads: Professor André Gessner, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Ernst Holler, until 12/2025; Dr. Elisabeth Meedt, since 1/2026; Dr. Daniela Weber