B01: Relevance of cytoskeletal proteins for the function of cutaneous Langerhans cells and other types of dendritic cells

This project investigates the relevance of cytoskeletal components for cutaneous DC functions. In particular, the functional roles of the evolutionarily conserved leukocyte-specific motor protein Myo9B and the downstream cytoskeletal effector molecules Cofilin (governs F-actin turnover) and Fascin-1 (bundles F-actin, specifically expressed in DC) will be elucidated by using genetically modified DC. The course of distinct cutaneous disease models (leishmaniasis, psoriasis, hapten- and protein-specific contact dermatitis and tolerance induction) will be assessed using mice deficient for Fascin-1 or for Myo9B in DC.