The Stoiber Lab | Molecular Virology

In the centre of interest is the interaction of retroviruses with components of the innate immunity and its effect on the adaptive immunity. Beside HIV or SIV, our investigations are dealing with murine retroviruses and HCV to study the interplay between viruses and the innate as well as adaptive immune system in vivo and in animal models. Interactions of dendritic cells (DCs) with complement are mainly driven by Dr. Banki.

In this respect focus 1 aims to elucidate impact of complement and DCs on the infection by viruses, the regulation on antigen presentation and CTL responses. Beside we investigate alternative approaches to develop complement-based vaccines and therapies not only for the treatment of viral infections but also to control tumor growth and development.

In focus 2 we aim to improve therapeutic antibodies. By enhancement of complement-mediated lysis (CML) pathogens or tumor cells are eliminated. For this, protection mechanisms, which are acquired by pathogens or tumor cells against CML, are specifically inhibited. Similarly to focus 1, pathogens and tumor cells, against which no or limited therapy options are available, should be eliminated.