Research

The aim of basic research is to investigate fundamental biological processes. A better understanding of these processes enables the development of new therapeutic approaches on a rational basis. Our research group investigates how cells of the immune system, especially T cells, function. We pay special attention to so-called microRNAs and their role in the regulation of the immune system. We use the latest technologies such as CRISPR/Cas genome editing, investigate disease processes in animal models but also work with human cells. In the long term, we aim to test microRNAs as a therapeutic target and develop new cell therapy approaches.

https://biomedizin.unibas.ch/en/research/research-groups/jeker-lab/

Since May 2008, the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS) has been operating as a central system for the systematic recording and follow-up of all patients undergoing organ transplantation in a Swiss transplant center.

The STCS is a prospective, multicenter cohort study that is structured as a dynamic system and follows up patients over an open period of time.

The aims of the STCS are, among others, to investigate risks and success factors regarding the long-term outcome after transplantation as well as the long-term effects of immunosuppression. In particular, we are interested in transplant immunology, transplant-related infectious diseases, genomic factors, psychosocial factors, the occurrence of tumors and general outcome research of the various Swiss transplant programs.

In accordance with the Swiss Transplantation Act and in collaboration with the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), the STCS also fulfills the mandate to compile and publish reports on the outcome after transplantation. The STCS is unique in the world in that every single patient is comprehensively recorded and tracked throughout the country. This is done by comparing the data with the FOPH's Swiss Organ Allocation System (SOAS), which is used to allocate donor organs. It is important to have high-quality data that adequately reflects the complex transplantation processes and thus provides an excellent basis for competitive international research and new quality controls.

The STCS is managed by the Division of Transplantation Immunology and Nephrology and is financially supported by the transplant clinics and the Swiss National Science Foundation.

stcs.ch

To ensure that a kidney transplant is not rejected, medication is needed to suppress the recipient's immune system (=immunosuppressants). However, these drugs can have side effects, such as an increased susceptibility to infections, the development of tumors, increased blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. It is therefore an important goal to adapt immunosuppression to the individual needs of a patient. With our research, we are trying to come closer to this goal. We are pursuing various approaches:

1. Determining the risk of rejection prior to transplantation
2. Value of monitoring kidney transplant biopsies
3. Development of urine and blood tests for early rejection diagnostics. A prospective study supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation is currently underway in this regard.
   http://p3.snf.ch/project-169310
4. Development of monitoring and treatment concepts for BK polyomavirus infection