Labs & Centers

We study how viruses disrupt the immune system and contribute to autoimmune disease. Millions of people suffer from autoimmunity and the prevalence continues to rise. For most autoimmune diseases, the cause is unknown but viral infections are suspected to play a role. Despite this link, there is limited data demonstrating a direct causal role for viral infections in autoimmune disease. We have found that neonatal infection with roseolovirus induces autoimmunity by disrupting the processes that normally limit the development of autoreactive T and B cells. Our initial studies suggest that this occurs due to infection of the thymus.

Research profile

The Cooper is focused on mechanisms of immune cell control, including regulation of natural killer cell activation and molecular mechanisms driving pediatric immune-mediated disease.

Research profile

The goal and mission of the Center for Pediatric Immunology is to advance the care of children with immune system disorders. The center is focused on providing scientific infrastructure for the investigation and therapy of pediatric inborn errors of immunity, with a focus on discovery of molecular (genetic) mechanisms of disease.