University of Virginia-Main Campus · Microbiology & ImmunologyErickson Immunology Lab
Loren D Erickson · Charlottesville, Virginia
Research Focus
Dr. Loren D. Erickson's lab explores how specific immune responses, particularly those involving IgE antibodies, affect cardiovascular health. Specifically, the research focuses on the connection between IgE sensitization to a mammalian sugar called alpha-gal and the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become clogged. Using both human studies and novel mouse models, the lab aims to uncover the mechanisms by which IgE influences plaque formation and stability in the arteries, which could lead to new insights into coronary artery disease.
IgEatherosclerosisalpha-galB cellsimmune responsecoronary artery diseasemice modelstick bitesinflammationlipid exposure
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the role of IgE sensitization to alpha-gal in atherosclerosis development.
AIM 02Determine the immune mechanisms that mediate IgE sensitization to alpha-gal.
AIM 03Evaluate the relationship between IgE levels and coronary artery disease severity in humans.
AIM 04Utilize a novel mouse model to study the effects of tick-derived lipids on IgE production.
AIM 05Characterize the immune cell populations involved in the atherosclerotic process linked to IgE sensitization.
Skills the Lab Values
mouse modelsimmunology techniquesB cell analysisflow cytometrycholesterol measurementsplaque characterizationgenetic engineeringimaging techniquesdata analysis in RWestern blotting
Output against the department
Publications58bottom 15% of dept.411th of 486
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations3.3kbottom 24% of dept.367th of 486
this lab
most citedleast cited
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