Veronika Hartmann

Unravel principles of the biomolecular network in pemphigus vulgaris

Pemphigus comprises a group of autoimmune diseases targeting either desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) or Dsg1/3 in Pemphigus vulgaris (PV). They can be found on epidermal and hair follicle stem and progenitor cells as well as mucous membranes. Autoantibodies targeting these proteins lead to disruption of cell-cell adhesion and ultimately to blister formation on the skin and mucous membranes. In this project, PV should be used as a model to establish a comprehensive and integrative biophysical and biochemical Dsg3 network to define the clinically relevant, transcellular tissue communication code driving tissue remodelling during injury. To achieve this goal, in this project, the human PV organ culture will be used.