‘IgA-activated phagocytes: innocent until proven guilty?’

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is the most prevalent antibody at mucosal sites with an important role in mucosal immune defense by preventing invasion of pathogens. IgA is also the second prevalent antibody in serum. Its function remains nonetheless elusive. We previously demonstrated that IgA is a very potent stimulus to trigger myeloid immune cell activation, through interaction with the IgA Fc receptor (FcaRI). This will be beneficial in (mucosal) infections, as potential infectious threats can be cleared. However, abnormal or excessive IgA immune complexes induce disproportionate activation, ultimately leading to significant tissue damage. In this presentation the putative role of serum IgA will be discussed. Additionally, the contribution of auto-IgA in pathology of autoimmune diseases will be addressed as well as therapeutic options to reduce tissue damage and disease. 

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From 19 Dec 2024 13:30
Until 19 Dec 2024 14:30
Location FSVMI building, seminar room

Speaker Marjolein Van Egmond
Affiliation UMC Amsterdam
Host Bart Lambrecht

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About the speaker

Prof.dr. van Egmond studies antibody activation of innate myeloid immune cells with emphasis on understanding the role of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in physiology and pathology. Her research is highly translational and focuses specifically on (1) the contribution of abnormal antibody responses to chronic inflammation and autoimmunity and (2) antibody-based approaches as immunotherapy of cancer. Prof.dr. van Egmond has a cross appointment with the Department of Surgery and the Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, to facilitate the rapid progression of pre-clinical findings into clinical applications. She is also the spokeswoman of the Dutch Society for Immunology, and since the COVID-19 crisis she has an active role in providing information on the immune system and vaccines to the general public.