Immune-mediated glomerular diseases are a major cause of end-stage renal disease and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In most forms of glomerulonephritis, autoreactive immune responses result in renal injury with proteinuria and various degrees of rapid loss of renal function. The lack of a comprehensive understanding of immunopathogenesis has so far hindered the identification of novel biomarkers and the development of specific treatment options.
To overcome these hurdles, we have established pipelines for deep tissue analysis and sophisticated tools for functional testing. In association with FOR2799, we identified and characterized kidney-resident gamma-delta T cells. We aim to decode their pro- and anti-inflammatory interactions with renal tissue cells in GN patients and develop new pathogenesis-based treatment options for our patients with glomerulonephritis.
