Lasting Imprints of Early Life Adversity on Hematopoietic Function and Host Defense

• Applicant: Dr. Jonas Schulte-Schrepping
• Subject Area: Clinical Infectiology and Tropical Medicine
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 573967095

The immune system plays a critical role in protecting the body from infections, but its long-term effectiveness can be shaped by early-life experiences. Increasing evidence suggests that psychosocial stress during sensitive developmental periods—such as childhood adversity or early neglect—can leave lasting biological imprints, potentially increasing susceptibility to infections later in life. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This project aims to investigate how early-life stress alters the development and long-term function of the immune system. Using a well-established mouse model that simulates early adversity through limited maternal care, we have already observed lasting changes in the bone marrow, where all peripheral immune cells are produced. These alterations suggest a reprogramming of the hematopoietic system, potentially affecting how immune cells differentiate and respond to future challenges. We will now examine how these early changes influence the response to bacterial infection in adulthood, using Listeria monocytogenes as a model pathogen. By combining behavioral assessments, infection tracking, and advanced single-cell molecular analyses, we will determine whether early stress exposure impairs immune state and function, pathogen clearance, or recovery from infection. To extend the relevance of our findings to human health, we will also analyze data from the UK Biobank, a large-scale health database. By examining associations between childhood adversity, immune biomarkers, and infection history in adults, we aim to uncover whether similar immune vulnerabilities can be detected in people exposed to early-life stress. This research will contribute to a deeper understanding of how early psychosocial experiences shape immune resilience across the lifespan. Ultimately, these insights could help identify individuals at increased risk for infection-related health problems and inform future strategies for preventive care and intervention.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants