TRR 237 Nucleic Acid Immunity enters the second funding phase

Mechanisms for the detection and elimination of “foreign” genetic material are the focus of CRC/Transregio 237 “Nucleic acid immunity.” Certain receptors in the immune system are able to distinguish foreign nucleic acids from endogenous ones. As such, they play a vital role in the body’s defenses against pathogens. As part of the CRC/Transregio, the scientists want to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of nucleic acid immunity and explore under what conditions they can also contribute to the development of diseases - for example, chronic infections or autoimmune disorders. It is also envisioned that the results will facilitate the development of new, targeted therapies and therapeutic vaccines.

The CRC/Transregio has been funded by the German Research Foundation since 2018 and is now entering a second funding phase. During the first funding phase, Gunther Hartmann from the University of Bonn led the TRR. Starting on January 1, Veit Hornung will be the spokesperson of the research network. Other partners include Technische Universität Dresden and the University of Bonn.