Respiratory viruses are among the most common causes of illness worldwide and can pose additional risks for people living with chronic inflammatory diseases. The Mikacenic Lab studies how immune responses to respiratory viral infections differ in people with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that can affect both the joints and the lungs.
Researchers compare immune responses in the airway and blood to better understand why infections may be more severe in people with rheumatoid arthritis and how these infections influence lung inflammation and disease activity. This work aims to improve understanding of immune responses to respiratory viruses and identify factors associated with differences in clinical outcomes.
Additional Research Projects
Macrophage Diversity in Lung Inflammation and Fibrosis
The Mikacenic Lab studies how different populations of lung macrophages contribute to inflammation, tissue repair, and fibrosis.
Immune Checkpoint Signaling in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
The Mikacenic Lab studies how immune checkpoint signaling influences inflammation and recovery in acute respiratory distress syndrome.
