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Ye Zheng's primary research focus is on the immune system, particularly its dual role in combating foreign pathogens and, when unchecked, attacking the body's own tissues leading to autoimmune diseases such as type-1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. His lab specifically studies regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are crucial for maintaining immune homeostasis. Zheng's recent studies have identified the transcription factor Foxp3 as a pivotal regulator of Treg differentiation and function, with mutations leading to severe autoimmune diseases in humans and mice. His team is working to elucidate the upstream pathways that regulate Foxp3 expression and the downstream genes influenced by it. Through genomic approaches, they have mapped Foxp3's downstream target genes and are investigating a small group of transcription factors involved in Treg-mediated suppression of autoimmune responses. These insights could potentially lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases and enhance organ transplant survival rates and anti-tumor immunity.
Salk Institute for Biological Studies • La Jolla, CA
Joined as Assistant Professor, focusing on research related to regulatory T cells and autoimmune diseases.
Administered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Curricular groups include Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere (COAP), Geosciences (GEO), and Ocean Biosciences (OBP).