After a natural infection or a vaccine, B cells within germinal centers (specialized anatomical structures) divide, mutate their antibody genes, and mature—ultimately producing antibodies to protect us. While these behaviors are beneficial for immune responses, they can also increase the risk of developing B cell lymphomas.
Dr. Hong is studying the mechanisms that determine B cell fate, in order to shed light on why cancers develop as well as what factors cause B cells to acquire long-lasting memory. These insights could then reveal how to manipulate B cell behavior, against cancer as well as other diseases through the design of superior vaccine strategies.
Projects and Grants
Defining the Mechanisms That Govern B Cell Fate Decisions in the Germinal Center and Establishing Molecular Inputs That Regulate B Cell Memory
The Rockefeller University | All Cancers | 2021 | Michel Nussenzweig, M.D., Ph.D.
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