The immune system responds to various pathogens including viruses and bacteria in different ways to prevent severe disease and persistence in the host. Many pathogens, however, have developed mechanisms to evade immune defence.

The molecular and cellular interactions of pathogens with the immune system are studied within this program. The objective is to gain a fundamental understanding of the mutual interaction of pathogens and the immune system, which can be used for developing strategies for immunotherapy and vaccination.

In the field of transplantation immunogenetic research and diagnostic is performed in order to avoid rejection and to optimize donor and recipient finding.

Moreover, differentiation of lymphocytes is studied in several groups. Thus, the participating research groups carry out basic scientific and clinical approaches.