USP18 as an immune check-point regulator for microglial activation (B16*)

• Subject Area: Immunology ; Experimental Models for the Understanding of Nervous System Diseases ; Virology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 259373024

Ubiquitin-specific protease (USP)18 is involved in terminating type 1 interferon signaling (IFN) and acts as a gatekeeper for aberrant microglia activation. Mutations in USP18 and its associated proteins lead to fatal interferonopathies. We will closely investigate the function of USP18 for brain integrity and microglia development and address the role of the genetic background on phenotypic. Further, we will generate a humanized model of the USP18 signaling hub for translational modulation of IFN signaling and microglia activation.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 167: Development, function and potential of myeloid cells in the central nervous system (NeuroMac)
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität München (TUM)
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Antje Beling; Privatdozent Dr. Klaus-Peter Knobeloch