Experimental Immunology (research)

The department of Experimental Immunology (EXIM) performs both fundamental and translational research. The department hosts various clinical groups from the AMC to maximize the link between basic and translational research.

The research within the department focuses on understanding of molecular and cellular immunological processes that govern both innate and adaptive immunity. These processes are deregulated in wide variety of diseases. Synergy between the fundamental and clinical research is obtained by partnering the fundamental research with translational and clinical research in the areas of transplantation immunology, rheumatology, hemato-oncology, pediatric immunology, allergy, pulmonary immunology and viral immunology. The department participates in the Amsterdam Cohort Studies on HIV infection and AIDS, and the AgehIV cohort study on comorbidity and aging with HIV.

The department contains a diagnostic laboratory responsible for the immunological diagnostics within the AMC. The fundamental/translational research within EXIM drives the development of novel innovative diagnostic tools to better treat immunological diseases and combat infections.

EXIM is the training ground for both bachelor and master students in Biology, Biomedical Sciences and Medicine, by providing group courses and individual internships.

A vast number of our genes has evolved to provide the immune system with appropriate arms to combat a large variety of pathogens. In the past decades, molecular characterization of pathways that regulate intercellular (membrane receptors, cytokines) and intracellular (apoptosis and signalling cascades, gene regulation) communication has contributed tremendously to progress in immunology. Importantly, this molecular knowledge has provided insight into the pathogenesis many immune mediated diseases diseases. More recently, translation of these new insights into immuno-intervention strategies have been made. This field of immunotherapy is highly successful and rapidly expanding.

The Department of Experimental Immunology has focus on molecular and cellular immunology. Within the department fundamental research is combined with translational and clinical research in the areas of transplantation immunology, rheumatology, hemato-oncology, pediatric immunology, allergy, pulmonary immunology, and viral immunology. In addition, we use findings from our various research programs to innovate our diagnostic tools.