Petri: Dishing Out the Science!

We are thrilled to welcome Petri to our lab! As our first team member with an immunology background, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective that will undoubtedly enhance our research endeavors. We are particularly excited that Petri will be working on the Vidi grant project, where she will focus on follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) and their critical roles during immune activation.

The Role of FDCs in Immune Activation

FDCs are essential players in the immune system, known for their ability to present antigens to B cells and maintain the architecture of lymphoid tissues. Petri’s research aims to unravel the complex interactions of FDCs during immune activation, which could lead to significant advancements in our understanding of immune responses and the development of new immunological therapies.

Insights from Petri’s Thesis

Petri’s Master Thesis (see cover image) explored protein folding and the role of molecular chaperones, focusing on how B cells utilize the unfolded protein response (UPR) during development and activation. This research is particularly interesting in the context of FDCs because it highlights how cellular stress responses can influence immune cell function. Understanding these processes can provide insights into how FDCs manage protein folding stress during immune activation and potentially regulate this stress in B cells. This could reveal new therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases or immunodeficiencies.

Artistic Talent Meets Scientific Inquiry

In addition to her scientific expertise, Petri is also a talented artist, as showcased by the stunning cover of her Master Thesis. Her ability to blend art and science is truly inspiring; if her scientific contributions are as impressive as her artistic skills, we are in for an exciting journey ahead. Join us in celebrating Petri’s arrival and the fresh creativity and insight she will bring to our lab!