The initial interaction between pathogen and host is, in many cases, decisive for the outcome of an infection. Therapeutic and prophylactic measures that target this stage are most effective in preventing the progression of disease. In the case of infection of cattle by Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides (Mmm), these early steps are still insufficiently understood. Therefore, we aim to investigate this interaction in detail, both in vitro and in vivo. Our fundamental scientific findings will support the development of new tools, such as vaccines, by specifically addressing the following questions: i) What is the molecular basis of Mmm adhesion to host cells? ii) Which molecular mechanisms are involved in immunomodulation and cytotoxicity? iii) What are the early host responses of epithelial cells and the immune system to Mmm infection?

Project participants from FLI: 

PD Dr. Robert Kammerer
Dr. Christiane Schnee
Dr. Sokhna Diaw 

Projektbeteiligte:

TiHo Hannover

University of Nairobi

KALRO, Nairobi

ILRI, Nairobi