FOXO transcription factors in PH: critical integrators of multiple immune signaling pathways driving pulmonary vascular and right ventricular remodeling (A01)

• Subject Area: Pneumology, Thoracic Surgery
• Term: since 2016
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 268555672

Forkhead box O (FOXO) transcription factors play critical roles in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications of FOXO transcription factors can alter their subcellular localization and activity, which affects the adaptability of lung vascular cells and other cell types to different stress factors. We will investigate the functions of FOXOs in T cells as a possible driver of PAH. In particular, we will focus on 1) investigating the role of FOXOs in different T helper cell populations, 2) analyzing the role of T cell-specific FOXO signaling pathways in PAH development and right ventricle dysfunction, 3) dissecting the role of different immune and T helper cell subpopulations in PAH and RV dysfunction.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1213: Pulmonary Hypertension and Cor Pulmonale
• Applicant Institution: Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Gergana Dobreva, until 6/2020; Professorin Dr. Soni Savai Pullamsetti