The Klein Lab

Welcome

The overarching goal of our research is to uncover the mechanisms mediating how males and females differ in their immune responses to viral and bacterial infection and vaccination. We hypothesize that sex chromosome complement and X-linked gene expression as well as sex steroids signaling through sex steroid receptors are critical pathways modulating immune responses to microbes. We consider how immunological, hormonal, and genetic differences between males and females affect sex differences in susceptibility to respiratory pathogens, including influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2 viruses, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We also study the mechanisms mediating altered immune responses and infectious disease pathogenesis during pregnancy and with aging . Our group works with human samples, animal models, and cell culture systems. Trainees learn state-of-the-art immunological, microbiological, and genetic methods along with experimental design, statistical analyses, writing, and presentation skills. We are a highly collaborative and productive team, learn more and consider joining us.