Natalia V. Giltiay, Ph.D.

Research Interest:  

Our research is focused on investigating how B cells are regulated in health and disease. Innate immune signals can program B cells to produce autoantibodies that   drive the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjogren’s Syndrome. Our group is examining the role of Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7), and cytokines such as B cell-activating factor (BAFF) and type I IFNs in the selection and activation of autoreactive B cells. Recently, we have shown a link between newly-formed B cell expansion and activation and TLR7 gene polymorphism in SLE patients. Currently, the Lab is exploring novel mechanisms for the activation of B cells in SLE, driven by direct interactions between B cells and neutrophils. We are also developing new methods for establishing immunological tolerance by targeting antigens and reprograming dendritic to evoke regulatory T cell responses and inhibit autoantibody production.