Molecular pathogenesis of lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multi-organ autoimmune disease. One of the characteristics is the presence of autoantibodies against double-stranded-DNA (anti-dsDNA) in serum at high levels. In addition, bacterial infections are associated with higher morbidity and mortality in SLE. However,interaction between the risk factors in the pathogenesis of lupus remains to be determined. Furthermore, current therapies for SLE including steroids and immunosuppressive agents have more side effects. Therefore, we focus on the roles of infection (innate immunity) and anti-dsDNA in the pathogenesis of SLE. Moreover, these results may also provide molecular targets for the development of new drugs. The new therapeutic strategies may be alternatives for the classical steroid treatment for SLE.

Molecular tumorigenesis and novel immunotherapy of cancer

The tumor microenvironment consists of immune cells, mesenchymal-derived cells, fibroblasts, surrounding blood vessels, signaling molecules, and the extracellular matrix. It forms a complex regulatory network that fosters tumor growth by evading immune surveillance and destruction. Tumors also can influence the microenvironment by releasing extracellular signals, promoting tumor angiogenesis and inducing peripheral immune tolerance. Therefore, the tumor microenvironment contributes to tumor initiation, tumor progression and responses to therapy. The clinical therapies of lung cancer, head neck cancer and renal cell carcinomas are based on combined chemotherapy or molecular targeting therapy. However, the overall survival rate has improved only marginally and the relapse rate is high. Defining the factors involved in the tumor microenvironment for disease progression and metastasis will provide molecular targets for the development of effective therapies. Therefore, we focus on the molecules of tumor microenvironmentin the cancer progression, including galectin family, proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines and receptors. In addition, we develop cancer immunotherapy.