T cells are extremely diverse with regard to their phenotype, function, anatomic localization and migratory behavior, even when they harbor exactly the same T cell receptor. As a consequence, T cells in different cellular states play different roles in for example the control of infections and tumors, or the pathology associated with inflammatory disorders. Using a combination of several state-of-the-art single-cell technologies, we study how different CD8 T cell states arise, what mechanisms underlie their specific properties, and how one can easily determine the functional state of a T cell.

Karolinska Institutet Research Incubator (KIRI)
Our group is part of KIRI, a KI research incubator for innovative interdisciplinary research.

Center for Cellular Cancer Therapy (C3T)
Our group is part of C3T, with Carmen Gerlach being one of the co-PI in this Swedish Research Council funded initiative for Centers of Excellence. With funding for recruiting excellent scientists and organizing networking activities, our goal is to create a vibrant multidisciplinary center that bridges expert knowledge in the biology of cytotoxic lymphocytes – immune cells that kill cancer cells – with that of good manufacturing practice compliant production and adoptive cell therapy in the clinic. Thereby, we will foster innovative new adoptive cell therapies focused on tumor-directed lymphocytes.