Immunotherapy in cardiovascular disease

• Applicant: Dr. Kai-Uwe Jarr
• Subject Area: Cardiology, Angiology
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 503964470

The human body turns over more than one million cells per second. This programmed cell removal ensures organ function. Most importantly, it is non- or even anti-inflammatory. To emphasize the importance of apoptotic cell clearance, the term “efferocytosis” (derived from the Latin verb efferre - effero: to carry to the grave) is used. The “edibility” of a given cell is tightly regulated by its expression of so-called “eat-me” and “don’t-eat-me” molecules. A growing number of pathologies have been linked to the defective clearance of dying cells. However, efferocytosis is not a fixed defect and can be reactivated by targeting the imbalance of these signals. This project will focus on the emerging potential of pro-efferocytic therapies in cardiovascular disease. The research proposal integrates in vitro analyses and mouse models to address these questions. In conclusion, these studies may pave the way for this promising therapeutic strategy.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants