Role of platelets in control and clearance of hepatitis B virus infection via modulation of liver tissue environment and metabolism (06)

• Subject Area: Immunology
• Term: from 2016 to 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 272983813

The liver microenvironment containing different parenchymal and non-parenchymal liver cells and the hepatic metabolome play a pivotal role in the clearance of hepatic virus infections. Here we investigate the direct and indirect role of platelets in shaping the liver microenvironment, polarizing immune cell phenotypes and affecting liver metabolism in the context of viral infections. We analyse how platelets contribute to the reshaping of the liver immune niche, how they interact directly with hepatocytes in the context of antiviral therapies and how they affect clearance mechanisms. Our data might hint at novel targets used to support effective and long-lasting antiviral responses in the context of hepatic viral infections and reducing unwanted, immune-mediated side-effects.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 179: Determinants and dynamics of elimination versus persistence of hepatitis virus infection
• Applicant Institution: Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Mathias Heikenwälder