Stromal Cells - Architects of Tissue Immunity
Stromal cells are fibroblasts that provide the supportive framework of an organ and its vasculature, distinct from the parenchyma. Extending from the vasculature, these cells are also strategically positioned to sense local inflammation and support tissue immunity. The immunological functions of stromal cells are best exemplified in lymphoid organs, where they steer the recruitment, retention and activation of adaptive immune responses. Many of these immunological functions are recapitulated in inflamed, non-lymphoid organs with consequences for local immunity and tissue pathology. We have previously contributed to elucidating mechanisms by which lymphoid organ fibroblasts support efficient humoral immunity. Our current work focuses on elucidating how stromal cell immunobiology is shaped by interacting immune cell partners and tissue environments, with a particular focus on the central nervous system and its draining lymphoid organs.
Date: 5 March 2026, 14:15
Venue: Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, South Parks Road OX1 3RE
Venue Details: EPA Seminar Room
Speaker: Dr Natalia Pikor (ETH Zurich, Institute of Microbiology)
Organising department: Sir William Dunn School of Pathology
Organisers: Helly Worsdell (Sir William Dunn School of Pathology), Melissa Wright (University of Oxford, Sir William Dunn School of Pathology )
Organiser contact email address: helly.worsdell@path.ox.ac.uk
Host: Prof Matthew Freeman (Dunn School of Pathology)
Booking required?: Not required
Audience: Members of the University only
Editors: Melissa Wright, Helly Worsdell