Riffelmacher studies the function of immune cells using cutting-edge techniques in the lab of LJI Professor Mitchell Kronenberg, Ph.D. He also examines how we may increase cellular metabolism to better combat disease
The Immunometabolism Core at LJI enables researchers from throughout the Institute to understand how various immune cells obtain their energy. Are some cells more dependent on glucose or oxygen to fight influenza? Does this also apply to cells battling SARS-CoV-2?
Riffelmacher can infect immune cells with pathogens in the specialized Biosafety Level 2 lab called Seahorse. He can then arrange the cells into their individual chambers to assess their condition.Additionally, the Seahorse contains injection ports that allow Riffelmacher to fill the tiny chambers with chemicals. In order to increase energy production in the cells, he can add a substance that causes the mitochondria to "go crazy." In order to determine food and metabolite consumption at the single-cell level, The Core may also conduct "metabolic flow" experiments.
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June 15, 2023
A interesting approach is the capacity to change cellular metabolism by introducing compounds that make mitochondria "go crazy" and improve energy output. In order to enhance the immune response and successfully fight infectious illnesses, it might be useful to understand how immune cells use energy under various settings.
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