Papayannopoulos lab

Antimicrobial Defence Laboratory

Our lab studies how inflammation is controlled during infection and chronic diseases to improve treatments for serious conditions

We have a particular interest in immune cells called neutrophils. Neutrophils play central roles in our immune defence by recognising and destroying invading pathogens such as bacteria, fungi and parasites using a diverse anti-microbial arsenal. Loss of neutrophil function can lead to severe infection and sepsis, whereas uncontrolled engagement of neutrophils can promote diseases such as atherosclerosis, arthritis and cancer. 

We investigate how neutrophils respond to infections and contribute to inflammatory processes by distinguishing different types of pathogens and engaging them in an effective manner. We also examine how neutrophils communicate with other immune cells to improve the outcomes of infection or to promote disease. 

A significant part of our work focuses on neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are networks of extracellular fibres composed of DNA and antimicrobial proteins that neutrophils release to trap and kill pathogens. We study how NETs are released, how they are sensed by other cells and how they are cleared to understand their impact on immune defence and the development of inflammatory diseases. 

Understanding these processes at the molecular level can unveil new opportunities for the treatment of severe infections, inflammatory conditions and cancer.