In this engaging discussion, James Lederer, an associate professor specializing in neutrophil research, and Elizabeth Kovacs, an expert on aging and lung inflammation, delve into the intricate responses of the immune system to trauma. They explore fascinating topics such as the role of natural immune mice in research and how gut, lungs, and brain function together during injury. Additionally, they discuss the effects of alcohol on burn patients and the implications of aging on lung health, shedding light on the complexities of immunity.
Liz and Jim emphasize how personal experiences and interdisciplinary education shaped their careers in immunology.
Their research utilizing 'dirty mice' highlights the significance of a diverse microbiome in understanding human-like immune responses.
Deep dives
Journey into Science: The Influence of Family and Early Experiences
Both guests share personal anecdotes reflecting how their backgrounds shaped their scientific careers. Liz became drawn to science as a way to compete with her brother, who excelled in other subjects. Meanwhile, Jim was inspired by his aunt, a science teacher, who would take him on field trips, sparking his early interest in the natural world. These formative experiences not only fostered a love for science but also imparted a sense of curiosity that would significantly influence their career choices.
Research Pathways: Exploring Immunology and Neutrophils
Liz and Jim discuss their respective journeys into immunology, each illustrating diverse academic paths. Liz initially focused on cell biology, only later integrating immunology into her work while Jim transitioned from veterinary sciences to bacteriology and immunology after a transformative undergraduate course. Their experiences underscore the importance of interdisciplinary education and how unexpected encounters in research settings can redirect career trajectories. Both emphasize the exciting nature of studying immune cells, particularly the critical role neutrophils play in immune responses.
Innovative Mouse Models: The Concept of 'Natural Immune Mice'
Jim introduces the concept of using 'natural immune mice,' which are co-housed with pet shop mice to expose them to a more diverse microbiome. This approach allows for a more realistic representation of human immune responses compared to traditional mouse models. Through this research, they aim to understand how these models can shed light on inflammatory responses and disease mechanisms in humans. The findings suggest these 'dirty mice' may have more human-like immune systems, opening avenues for future research in immunology and treatment methodologies.
The Interconnectedness of Organs: Gut, Lung, and Brain Research
Liz discusses her current research focusing on the interactions between the gut, lung, and brain, particularly in the context of aging and trauma. She notes that the health of each organ is intricately linked, as inflammation in one area can affect the others through the circulatory system. This comprehensive approach is aimed at unraveling how factors like aging and alcohol consumption influence health outcomes across these interconnected systems. By studying how these organs interact, she believes this research might lead to more holistic treatment strategies for various diseases.
From the 2024 Society for Leukocyte Biology meeting at Michigan State University, home of the Spartans, Immune’s Cindy and Brianne talk with Liz Kovacs and Jim Lederer about their careers, dirty mice, old mice, and immunity during trauma.