Dr Fang-Ping Huang

Immune regulation in systemic autoimmunity

Our current research focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying systemic autoimmunity. Lupus disease is intriguing clinically and immunologically for its systemic nature and complexity in pathogenesis. The broad auto-reactivities and B cell hyperactivity are known to be predominately T cell-dependent, but the mechanisms underlying such a systemic loss of T and B cell tolerance is still to be understood. We study the roles of dendritic cells (DC), regulatory T (Treg) and B (Breg) cells, as well as various soluble factors (cytokines etc) involved in the induction and modulation of autoimmune disorders. Based on our findings, we try to understand how the immune system is normally regulated, and why dysregulation of which may cause diseases. Furthermore, findings from our studies on autoimmune mechanisms have also offered important new insights as to how the so-called "self-reactivity" (autoimmune responses) can be effectively redirected, immunologically or molecularly, for the treatment of tumors (i.e. “altered self”). 

Clinical specialities relevant to: Immunology and rheumatology.

Further information
http://www1.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/people/fp.huang/

Contact Details
fp.huang@imperial.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)20 8383 2397