Biography

The major research interest of our laboratory is to investigate mechanisms for immune responses in inflammatory diseases and tumors. The immune system plays crucial roles in protection against pathogens and surveillance of cancer development. However, immune responses can also cause inflammatory diseases in overreactions and promote cancer development in a form of unsolved chronic inflammation. Mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Study in the mechanisms will not only advance our understanding of pathogenesis of immune-related disorders but also be exploited to development of new strategies for treatment. 

Allergic contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is mediated by T cell dependent delayed type hypersensitivity responses. Th1 and Th17 cells are primary effector cells in the development of allergen induced contact dermatitis in the skin. Our current studies examine mechanisms for resolution of the cutaneous inflammation. The focus will be on mechanisms for the development of immune suppressive myeloid cells and their roles in the suppression of allergen specific T cells. 

Inflammation associated tumor development. The role of inflammation in tumor development is a key issue in tumor immunology. Although it is well known that inflammation is associated with immune suppression and tumor growth, mechanisms remain to be fully determined. Our current studies concentrate on the role of interleukin-17 in inflammation associated immune suppression and tumor development. We examine it in animal models with chemical carcinogen or ultraviolet radiation induced immune suppression and carcinogenesis in the skin.

Education & Training

Graduate School
M.S., Immunology, Tong-Ji Medical School, Wuhan. P. R. China, 1986
Ph.D., Immunology, University of Goettingen, W. Germany, 1992

Contact Information

Leslie Roop
Program Manager
Phone: (205) 934-5188
Email: lmroop@uabmc.edu