Pathology & Laboratory Medicine

Charlotte Kaetzel,  Ph.D.

Professor

E-mail: cskaet@uky.edu
Telephone:   (859) 257-6573
Fax:   (859) 323-2094
Campus Address:  Microbiology and Immunology, 124D Combs Cancer Building, 0096

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies are the first line of immune defense in mucous membranes, protecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts from inhaled, ingested and sexually transmitted pathogens. Transport of IgA into external secretions is mediated by the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIGR). Our laboratory studies transcriptional regulation of the PIGR gene in human intestinal epithelial cells. PIGR gene transcription is up-regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, microbial components that signal through Toll-like receptors, and by infection with reovirus, an intestinal pathogen. We are currently mapping signaling pathways and transcription factors that participate in PIGR gene regulation. This research is relevant to understanding the function of IgA in combating mucosal infections, and in the development of mucosal vaccines that stimulate IgA production and transport. Our research also explores the dysregulation of IgA transport in colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other diseases of the intestine.