Sun lab PHD rotation/thesis projects:

1. Roles of peroxisome function in anti-viral and anti-tumor immune responses.
2. Long COVID and chronic sequelae including tumor development after viral infections.
3. Chronic inflammation in accelerating cellular senescence and biological aging.
4. Mucosal vaccination strategies to induce strong anti-viral and anti-tumor mucosal immunity.

Sun Lab Research Directions:

Respiratory Viral Infection and Immunity

A central theme in our lab is understanding how T cells, macrophages and B cells orchestrate protective immune responses in the respiratory tract following infection and vaccination. By mapping the complex immune networks that foster mucosal immunity, we seek to identify the cellular and molecular pathways critical for designing more effective vaccines and immunotherapies. Insights gained from these studies can drive the development of mechanism-based strategies for designing mucosal vaccines and therapies against respiratory viral infections, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV.

Immunology of Long COVID and Chronic Lung Diseases

Respiratory infections can leave lasting impacts on lung function and overall health, as seen with long COVID. We examine how T cells and macrophages contribute to tissue regeneration and chronic inflammation, probing the metabolic and molecular factors that lead to long-term disorders after acute infections. Our goal is to translate these findings into strategies that prevent or mitigate chronic illness, improving quality of life for affected patients.

Cancer Immunology and Mucosal Vaccines

In the context of cancer, our research explores how respiratory viral infections, such as influenza and COVID-19, may accelerate lung tumor growth. We investigate the metabolic interplay between tumors and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, seeking ways to enhance anti-tumor immunity. Building on our expertise in respiratory immunology, we are also developing engineered T cells and mucosal vaccines that deliver both local and systemic protection against lung cancer.

Aging and Cellular Senescence

We study how chronic inflammation, dysregulated immune system and respiratory infections exacerbate tissue senescence and accelerate organ aging. Conversely, aging is also accompanied by a decline in immune competence, heightening susceptibility to infections and malignancies. By dissecting the immune pathways involved, we aim to devise interventions that rejuvenate the elderly immune system and guide the development of more effective vaccination and immunotherapies for older adults.