Using mice infection models, gene expression of innate immune cells such as effector and memory T cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and innate lymphocytes in the acute and chronic stages are analyzed at the single cell level and visualize gene expression patterns in collaboration with researchers in molecular imaging. We will acquire information essential for classifying the response patterns of immune cells to viral infection, create a mathematical model of immune response patterns in collaboration with mathematical researchers, and construct a database. Furthermore, we will identify the key molecules and networks of immune cells against each viral infection, investigate the gene expression patterns of immune-supporting cells in lymph nodes and bone marrow and those of cells in the respiratory tract and blood vessels, and clarify their roles in viral infection responses. In addition, we will examine the microbiome to clarify their roles in the host response to viral infection. In collaboration with mathematical and imaging researchers, we will explore the networks of immune cells, immune-supporting cells, and the microbiome and elucidate the molecular mechanisms that control the networks between groups. Regarding the microbiome, we aim to identify critical bacterial groups in the response of immune cells and immune-supporting cells to viral infections.

We conducted comprehensive gene expression analysis focusing on immune cells using infection models of influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. In collaboration with researchers from Project 3, we identified molecules involved in exacerbating the diseases. Furthermore, we examined the effects of the inhibitors against identified molecules in mouse models, assessing their validity as biomarkers and molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. To facilitate the application of our research findings to humans, we analyzed the correlation between viral infections and human conditions, such as obesity, aging, and allergies. Additionally, we obtained clinical data from various cohorts, including the Chiba University Corona Vaccine Center staff cohort. We analyzed the immunological characteristics related to the maintenance of a pre-symptomatic state.