Research Statement
Dr. Im is currently professor in the Division of Integrative Biosciences and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and a Group leader, Academy of Immunology and Microbiology (AIM), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), KOREA. His main research interest is to investigate the underlying mechanism of immune homeostasis at the cellular and molecular level. Dr. Im's laboratory has five main areas of interest: (1) Role of transcription factors (Ets1 and NFAT1) in immune regulation and tolerance; (2) Molecular mechanism of IL- 10 gene regulation in lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells (DCs and macrophages); (3) Elucidation of the signaling pathways and underlying mechanism for regulatory T (Treg) cell differentiation by probiotics; (4). Characterization of regulatory DCs and iTreg cells induced by probiotics; (5) Development of antigen-specific immunotherapy for autoimmune disorders (Myasthenia gravis and rheumatoid arthritis). His research will provide a close link between basic research and translational approach to treat hyper-immune disorders such as autoimmunity and allergic disorders
