The Role of alpha-4 Integrin in Immune Regulation

We are currently investigating the immunobiologic consequences of altering the intracellular signaling capacity of α4 integrin which is a surface adhesion molecule expressed broadly on immune cells within the body. With mice expressing a targeted mutation that impairs paxillin recruitment, we are investigating the effects within the B-cell compartment, which may affect differentiation, trafficking and involvement in host defense from infection, or as possible contributors to autoimmune disease.