about
In the Edelblum Lab, we believe that investigating the intersection between mucosal immunology, cell biology and microbiology will best help us understand the underlying cause of IBD. By visualizing cellular interactions in real time, we aim to provide new insight into the complexities of intestinal immunity. Through our studies, we hope to develop novel strategies to enhance barrier function in IBD patients.
Karen Edelblum, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor and Chancellor Scholar
With over 17 years combined experience in the fields of gastrointestinal epithelial biology, mucosal immunology and physiology, I have developed expertise in examining immune/epithelial interactions in the context of mucosal homeostasis and disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Matthew Fischer
Graduate Student - Molecular Biology, Genetics and Cancer Track
Matt joined the Edelblum lab in May 2019 as a pre-doctoral candidate. Matt's expertise in microbiology, will come in handy while investigating the role of type I interferon signaling in gamma delta IEL motility and activation.
Luo (Jack ) Jia
Graduate Student - Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Track
With a background in intestinal parasitology and mucosal immunology, Jack joined the Edelblum lab in June 2016 as a pre-doctoral candidate investigating the role of type I interferon signaling in gamma delta IEL homeostasis.
Sara Alonso
Graduate Student - Molecular Biology, Genetics and Cancer Track
Sara joined the Edelblum Lab in July 2020 with an interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which gamma delta IELs are activated in response to changes in the mucosal microenvironment.
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Natasha Golovchenko
Graduate Student - Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Track
Natasha comes to the lab with previous experience in IBD research from her undergraduate work at the University of Michigan. As a pre-doctoral candidate, her main project focuses on the role of granzymes in gamma delta IEL function at steady-state and in response to inflammation.