Targeting immunometabolism and inflammasome for Coxiella burnetii elimination and resolution of Q fever (A06)

• Subject Area: Immunology
• Term: from 2015 to 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 261193037

Project A06 investigates resolution of inflammation in Q fever, caused by infection with Coxiella burnetii. We recently identified an important role of the immunometabolites citrate and itaconate in control of bacterial replication by macrophages. In addition, we found hampered inflammasome activation in macrophages infected with C. burnetii, potentially favoring persistence and preventing resolution. In our project, we aim to dissect the mechanisms of inflammasome regulation and macrophage reprogramming by itaconate in Coxiella burnetii infected macrophages. Finally, controlled inflammasome activation and treatment with itaconate will be tested as translational strategies to achieve resolution of infection and inflammation in Q fever.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1181: Checkpoints for Resolution of Inflammation
• Applicant Institution: Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Roland Lang; Professorin Dr. Anja Lührmann