Russell Vance wants to understand how the innate immune system detects the presence of infectious microbes. Using a variety of experimental techniques, from structural biology to biochemistry to genetics to in vivo studies, Vance and his team dissect the fundamental mechanisms that provide host defense against bacterial infection. They are particularly interested in pathogen sensors situated in the cytosol of host cells. They are also interested in how the immune system detects pathogen-encoded activities.
Many tend to think of evolution as an event that occurred too long ago to comprehend. But, HHMI Investigator Nels Elde and his lab study how hosts evolve resistance to pathogens – sometimes over vastly different stretches of time. The group’s insights also shed light on how pathogens adapt, including viruses that impact human health. Thirteen project teams involving 70 scientists from 29 institutions are collaborating on basic research targeted at preparedness for future emerging pathogens that could threaten human health. Never-before-seen images of mouse immune system proteins and bacterial bits reveal an inspection strategy that identifies pathogens.