Jakob von Moltke

Research Summary

The Moltke lab studies immune responses to parasitic worms (helminths) and allergens. These responses, collectively known as type 2 immunity, are triggered by an astonishing diversity of agonists, from macroscopic live worms to microscopic inert particles to soluble enzymes. Why does the immune system respond to them all in the same way? Using laboratory mice and helminths as model organisms, we study the initiation of type 2 immunity with the goal of providing insights that will lead to improved treatment and prevention of asthma, allergy, and parasitic infection.