Embedded Files
Jeffrey Curtis, M.D.
Professor of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine
University of Michigan Health System
Research Interests:
Our lab studies the regulation of pulmonary immunity by lung leukocytes. As a practicing physician involved in multiple clinical studies, Dr. Curtis has direct access to unique human samples and clinical data. While we use a wide variety of experimental techniques, our forte is advanced flow cytometry, made possible by our own modified LSR II flow cytometer. We also collaborate with a number of other PIBS labs, especially on murine projects and for analysis of the lung microbiome. We welcome graduate students interested in rotations.
Active Projects:
Immunopathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), through analysis of leukocytes from human lung tissue, bronchoalveolar lavage and peripheral blood. COPD is a complex group of lung disorders resulting from oxidative damage by smoking or, especially in the developing world, from indoor air pollution. It is currently the third-leading cause of death in the USA, and is projected by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be THE leading cause of death worldwide by 2050. Immune mechanisms appear to be central, but are only beginning to be defined.
Molecular mechanisms and consequences of apoptotic cell ingestion by murine & human alveolar macrophages. In healthy individuals, billions of cells die by apoptosis each day. Clearance of these apoptotic cells, termed “efferocytosis,” must be efficient to prevent secondary necrosis and the release of proinflammatory cell contents that disrupt homeostasis and potentially foster autoimmunity. During inflammation, most apoptotic cells are cleared by macrophages; the efferocytic process actively induces a macrophage phenotype that favors tissue repair and suppression of inflammation. Chronic lung diseases such as COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis are characterized by an increased lung burden of uningested apoptotic cells.
Contact:
Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine Section
VA Health System (506/111G)
2215 Fuller Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2303
(734) 845-3457
(734) 845-3257 (fax)
Page updated
Report abuse