Andrea J. Sant, Ph.D.

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Summary of Research Interests:

The defining feature of the immune system is its ability to distinguish self from non-self. The major component of the immune system responsible for this self / non-self discrimination is the diverse repertoire of antigen-specific T lymphocytes. T cell receptors can only recognize antigens derived from pathogens or transformed cells if these antigens are proteolyzed and if the derived peptide fragments can combine with self proteins termed Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. The assembly of the antigenic peptide-MHC complex takes place in intracellular compartments, by a series of molecular events collectively referred to as "MHC-restricted antigen presentation".

The research in my laboratory centers around the molecular events that regulate MHC class II-restricted antigen presentation. The hypothesis that underlies much of our research is that class II-restricted antigen presentation will be regulated at a number of critical points within the antigen presenting cell (APC) and that structural regions within the MHC class II molecule will influence discrete events along the antigen presentation pathway. Our interest in many aspects of class II biochemistry and function derives from an appreciation of the biological impact of class II regulatory events. Our long term goal is to make connections between the mechanisms involved in peptide acquisition by class II molecules and those aspects of immunology that critically depend on the specific peptides presented by the class II molecule.

Current Appointments

• Professor - Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology (SMD)