The immune system not only plays a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens but is also deeply involved in maintaining homeostasis and regeneration of various organs. As a result, all chronic diseases are accompanied by immune cell dysfunction, in addition to organ- or tissue-specific abnormalities. Modulating specific immune cell types has recently gained attention as a novel therapeutic approach for conditions such as obesity, diabetes, liver disease, dementia, and cancers.

   Our group aims to identify novel drug targets for chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases by elucidating the functions and mechanisms of key molecules involved in the regulation of various immune cells, using molecular and cellular biology techniques as well as animal models. We also study the interactions between commensal bacteria and the immune system for developing microbiota-based therapeutics for treatment of cancers and metabolic diseases.