Richard J. Di Paolo, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor Ph.D., Washington University, 2001 Email: rdipaolo@slu.edu Phone: 314-977-8860

Research Summary

The immune system is designed to protect the body against the various pathogens that are encountered, while maintaining a state of non-responsiveness, or tolerance to self. There are many mechanisms in place to ensure that the immune system does not attack the body, one of which is by generating a population of immunosuppressive CD4+FoxP3+ T cells called regulatory T cells (Tregs). Tregs are known to be one of the important components of maintaining tolerance to self tissues, which is crucial in preventing the development of autoimmune diseases. The importance of regulatory T cells is illustrated by the fact that mice and humans that have mutations in genes that involved in the development and/or function of regulatory T cells develop various autoimmune diseases. A greater understanding of the biology of these cells will provide insight as to how the immune system negatively regulates itself. This knowledge can then be used to develop new strategies for immunosuppressive therapies for autoimmune diseases and organ transplantation.

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