Mission Statement

The Sun Lab at the University of Virginia investigates how the immune system responds to viral infections, chronic conditions, and aging, with particular emphasis on long COVID, cancer and aging in the respiratory tract. By integrating T cell, B cell, and macrophage biology with tissue-oriented immune research, we aim to uncover mechanisms that promote effective mucosal immunity and safeguard immunopathology after respiratory viral infections. We are similarly interested in mapping the immunological and metabolic drivers of lung cancer, including how viral pneumonia accelerates tumor growth, and designing novel vaccines and immune therapies against lung cancer. Our studies further explore how chronic inflammation triggers cellular senescence and tissue aging, seeking ways to rejuvenate the older populations by targeting the immune system. Through advanced immunological techniques, animal models, and clinical samples, our ultimate goals are to translate these discoveries into innovative mucosal vaccines, immunotherapies, and interventions that improve patient outcomes.

For the most current list of Sun Lab publications, please see
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/jie.sun.1/bibliography/public/

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