Immunology

At National Jewish Health, we have a long history of advanced research in immunology, focusing on understanding the immune system and its role in various diseases. Researchers at National Jewish Health discovered the T-cell receptor gene, which plays a crucial role in recognizing foreign invaders and orchestrating an immune response. This discovery opened the door to understanding how the body fights viruses, bacteria and cancer. Our immunology research programs cover a broad range of topics and aim to develop new therapies and improve patient outcomes. Here is an overview of our immunology research programs:

• Immunology Research Center: The Immunology Center at National Jewish Health focuses on investigating the mechanisms of immune system function and dysfunction. The center integrates research with clinical care to advance understanding and treatment of immune-related diseases. It conducts research on various aspects of immunology, including autoimmune diseases, allergic disorders, immunodeficiency and inflammatory conditions.
• Autoimmune Disease Research: Our research focuses on the mechanisms underlying autoimmune diseases, such as Type I diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitis. Studies explore the genetic, environmental and immunological factors that contribute to autoimmunity.
• Allergy and Asthma Research: Our researchers study the immunological basis of allergic diseases and asthma, focusing on the role of IgE, T cells and other immune components. The goal is to develop targeted treatments and improve management strategies for allergic conditions.
• Immunodeficiency Disorders Research: Scientists focus on understanding primary and secondary immunodeficiency, including conditions like severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). Research includes exploring genetic causes, improving diagnostic methods and developing new treatments.
• Vaccine Research: Our investigators focus on developing and testing new vaccines and immunization strategies. Research includes understanding immune responses to vaccines and working to improve vaccine efficacy and safety.
• Regulatory Immunology: Researchers study the mechanisms of immune regulation and tolerance, including the role of regulatory T cells and other mechanisms that maintain immune homeostasis and prevent autoimmunity.
• Immunogenetics: Our scientists explore the genetic factors that influence immune system function and disease susceptibility. Research investigates how genetic variations impact immune responses and contribute to disease development.
• Immunology Research Advancements: Discovery of the T-cell receptor
  Discovery of superantigens involved in toxic shock syndrome and Legionnaire’s disease.
  Mechanisms of cell death known as apoptosis. Mechanisms on how the immune system identifies invading organisms and triggers an immune response