Functional role of the alveolar epithelial glycocalyx in pulmonary defense and inflammation (B02)

• Subject Area: Pneumology, Thoracic Surgery
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 431232613

Lung epithelial cells carry a hydrogel-like surface layer, including a glycocalyx. We hypothesize that the alveolar epithelial lining layer is of utmost relevance for pathogen defense by beneficially contributing to lung barrier function on the one hand and detrimentally providing nutrients/metabolites and anchoring structures for pathogens on the other. We will thus analyze the precise architecture as well as the role of the epithelial glycocalyx in steady state and lung infections in order to provide novel targets for prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against lung infections.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1449: Dynamic Hydrogels at Biointerfaces
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Peter H. Seeberger; Professor Dr. Martin Witzenrath