The project we are conducting is tightly linked with that carried out by Dr. D. Burger and Prof. JM Dayer. It deals with the activation of monocytes/ macrophages and neutrophils by direct contact with molecules expressed at the surface of activated T cells and with the inhibition of this activation by high-density lipoproteins, especially their main protein component apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1). Our group is involved in clinical investigations in immuno-inflammatory diseases and their possible association with atherosclerosis. It is particularly implicated in transferring research findings and technologies to clinical applications.More precisely, we are committed to · studying the capacity of T cell surface molecules to stimulate phagocyte (monocyte/macrophage and neutrophil) oxidative metabolism and its regulation by HDL. · determining positive (CRP, SAA) and negative (Apo-A1) acute phase proteins in the serum of patients with acute (septic shock) and chronic (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis) inflammatory diseases in order to establish their kinetics and their potential prognostic value. · setting up an assay for detecting auto-antibodies to Apo-A1 and to studying their prevalence in auto-immune and cardio-vascular diseasesassessing the levels of cytokines and their inhibitors in biological fluids in various immmuno-inflammatory conditions.

Nephrology