Tim L. Manser, Ph.D.

Research

Our laboratory’s interests center on the antigen-dependent stages of B cell differentiation in the mouse, leading to the generation of B cell memory and the control of B cell autoreactivity. We are investigating the mechanisms responsible for antigen-driven changes in the structure and function of the antibody repertoire during memory development, as well as the microenvironmental locales (particularly the germinal center (GC)) in which these changes take place. We are predominantly interested in the fate of B cells with autoreactive antigen receptors (either pre-existing or acquired via V region hypermutation) during memory B cell development. Additional projects concern the role of Fc receptors, the BAFF (BLyS) pathway, follicular dendritic cells and follicular helper T cells in the regulation of the B cell response. We have also recently established hematopoietically humanized mouse technology. We will be using this approach to study human autoimmune and infectious disease, as well as cancer immunotherapy.