WHY?

We test the idea of a division of labour among cDC subsets. Using new intersectional mouse models, we selectively remove one subset at a time and challenge the system with viruses, parasites, or tumours. We hypothesise that this division of labour is imprinted centrally in the bone marrow as a mechanism of anticipation and immune regulation. This will reveal which subsets are indispensable in different immune settings — and which ones might be harnessed to improve therapy.