Laboratory of HUMAN Immunology and infectious diseases
@Chang Gung University
HiiD Lab (Laboratory of Human Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
Last update: 2023.10
The purpose of our research is to construct a better future. We focus on studying the unknown diseases on this land, with the hope of ultimately assisting patients.
We also aim to cultivate the next generation of scientific talents and establish a good local research environment.
[We encourage young people to engage in scientific research.
Among all fields, biomedical research is the one that can most directly improve human life.]
.....by Dr. Jean-Laurent Casanova
Human immunology, infectious diseases, autoimmunity, primary immunodeficiency, antibody cloning, and immunocellular therapy
News & activity
New Lab Updates
Congratulations to Dr. Jen-Yen Kuo and Miss Chen-Xuan Kang for being selected for oral presentations at APSID
2024.03.21
This year's APSID (Asia Pacific Society for Immunodeficiencies) conference is being held in Tokyo. Two submissions from our lab, by Dr. Jen-Yen Kuo and student Chen-Xuan Kang, were selected for oral presentations. Since Dr. Guo was unable to attend, Kang presented both reports and received positive feedback, along with high praise from session chairs Dr. Okada and Dr. Morio. Additionally, Dr. Wei-Te Lei from our lab also submitted work showcasing results from using the Spectrum High Parameter cytometer in STAT1 GOF research."
Congratulations to Dr. Shih Han-Po for receiving the 沈水德翁 Immunology Research Paper Award from the Immunology Society!
2023.10.26
Dr. Shih graduated from Chang Gung University's Institute of Clinical Medicine in 2022. His doctoral thesis focused on the development of a single B cell cloning technique, isolating auto-antibodies against interferon-γ, and analyzing the molecular mechanisms underlying their functionality. His doctoral research was published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine and Current Opinion in Immunology. His research findings have successfully transitioned into technology transfer, and the project is currently in the human trial phase.
Recruitment Alert! The Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology (CMCI) and HiiD Laboratory are continuously seeking new team members.
Your enthusiastic participation is warmly welcomed.
2023.09.05
Full-time Assistant or Associate Researcher
Chang Gung University
-Description
Inviting Assistant/ Associate Researcher Positions in the Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Chang Gung University, Taiwan.
The Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology (CMCI), Chang Gung University, Taiwan, focuses on translational immunology research with a mission to apply innovation to treatment. The CMCI is inviting applications for Assistant or Associate Researcher Positions (Full-time). We seek highly motivated and creative researchers to work on infectious immunology, cancer immunology, and immune cell therapy. Early career investigators interested in contributing to a culture of excellence and mid-career investigators with a strong record of independent research and innovation.
-Work Conditions and Benefits of the Center:
The remuneration, benefits, training opportunities, and salary advancement are based on years of related professional experience. Research leaves for researchers are determined by their appointment level and are at par with the standards set by the university.
The Center offers performance bonuses: In addition to the standard salaries for researchers at all levels as per the guidelines of the Taiwan Ministry of Education, each researcher is awarded a "performance bonus" based on the outcomes of their research, administrative tasks, and service assessments.
Chang Gung University offers internationally competitive compensation commensurate with the professional experiences and expected contribution.
-About Chang Gung University (CGU), Taiwan
Chang Gung University (CGU), a contemporary and research-directed university with an entrepreneurial spirit, was established by the founding Wang family of the Formosa Plastics Group. CGU is ranked globally in the QS World Universities Rankings 2023 and in the top 5 among the 151 universities in Taiwan. CGU has four colleges: College of Medicine, College of Engineering, College of Management, and College of Intelligent Computing. CGU offers a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, with 6,805 students, 603 full-time faculty, and 692 adjunct faculty members. The University strives for excellence in research, teaching, and innovative technology commercialization. Under close ties with the Formosa Plastics Group and the Chang Gung Medical Foundation (the largest private-owned hospital system in Taiwan), CGU enjoys abundant research resources on manufacturing and medical services and has established itself as a top-class university that prepares its graduates for personal and professional success. CGU is located in the suburban area of Taipei City, about 30 minutes from the city center by Metro (Mass Rapid Transit). For details about Chang Gung University, please visit https://www.cgu.edu.tw/ ; about CGU Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology: https://cmci.cgu.edu.tw/
-Requirements
Qualification: MD or Ph.D. with research areas in Immunology, Cancer Biology, or a related reach area in Biomedicine. We invite early-career applicants.
-Preferred Qualifications
Research areas focusing on Immunology, Cancer Immunology, Cell therapy, Genetic Editing, and Drug Development. Prior biomedical industrial experiences in mRNA vaccine, antibody drug development, or cell therapy. Expertise in using and developing computational tools for data analysis; high parameter flow cytometry; Mice models for cell therapy.
Starting date: January 1, 2024.
(1) Applications received by August 31, 2023 will receive the fullest consideration.
(2) Application materials will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
(3) The interview date/time will be set up promptly if an application has received a favorable opinion from the committee. Online interviews may be arranged.
(4) Chang Gung University is an equal opportunity employer following the international standard for diversity and inclusion. Applicants from all regions and nationalities are welcome.
-Application Documents:
Applicants must submit the following materials assembled in ONE PDF file or in a cloud link:
(1) A one-page cover letter.
(2) A curriculum vitae (including educational background, professional history, detailed peer-reviewed publication list, and grants in chronological order).
(3) A statement of research and teaching interests.
(4) The names, titles, and email addresses of three referees.
(5) Other evidence documents or works (information beneficial to the application).
Deadline for Application: September 30, 2023.
Please submit your application in PDF files or a cloud link with the email subject “Apply to Researcher Position in CGU Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology (Applicant’s name)” to Miss Chia-Hsin Lin, Office of Personnel, Chang Gung University, Email: chiahsin@mail.cgu.edu.tw, and Ms. Chia-Chi Lo, Email at erica71128@cgu.edu.tw.
Congratulations to Jhan-Jie Peng on the publication of a review article on Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell Therapy in the Science Immunology
2023.04.14
Congratulations to our lab's doctoral student Jhan-Jie Peng, who during his study period collaborated with Professor Ping-Chih Ho's laboratory at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland on research into autoimmune diseases involving autoantibodies. He recently published a comprehensive review article on Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) Therapy in the international journal, Science Immunology.
CAR-T cell therapy is a burgeoning immunotherapy method in recent years, which has been proven to have significant effects on blood cancers such as B-cell lymphoma and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The prevalent method involves collecting T-cells from the patient, then redesigning them into CAR-T cells that have the ability to target specific tumor antigens. With the emergence of CAR-T cell therapy, ongoing research aims to improve the manufacturing and management techniques and processes of CAR-T cell therapy and extend this form of cell therapy to many other types of cancer.
This article primarily reviews successful cases of cancer treatment in the past and discusses the challenges currently faced by CAR-T cell therapy. It also explores the possibility of enhancing the effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapy for specific cancer cells by adjusting their metabolism via the tumor microenvironment. We believe that with the joint research efforts of numerous scientists, new treatment options can be developed for more cancer patients and those with special diseases.
Congratulations to Jing-Ya Ding on successfully passing the doctoral thesis defense and obtaining a doctoral degree! We celebrate her achievements and hard work in her academic journey!
2022.06.20
Congratulations to Jing-Ya Ding on successfully defending her doctoral thesis!
Since graduating from National Yang-Ming University in 2012, Jingya has been a valuable member of our laboratory. Over the years, her work has focused on the analysis of anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies in our laboratory, with a particular emphasis on the analysis of clinical symptoms and antibody characteristics.
Jing-Ya has shown a high level of enthusiasm for her research work. She performs experiments meticulously and attentively, ensuring high consistency in the results. Her work involves close collaboration with physicians, assisting in diagnosing patients with immune-related issues. This requires a great deal of dedication, attention to detail, and maintaining high experimental quality, all of which Jingya excels at. During her time in the laboratory, Jing-Ya has assisted in diagnosing over a thousand patients, providing significant help to both physicians and patients.
In her research, Jing-Ya collaborated with Guangxi Medical University and discovered the relationship between anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies and Malassezia fungal infections. She made significant contributions as a co-first author to the related publication in the Journal of Experimental Medicine. Jingya has played a major role in setting up experimental models, performing sample operations and analyses. Additionally, she has meticulously analyzed the relationship between antibody characteristics, concentrations, and clinical aspects, aiming to identify an effective biomarker for analyzing patient infections, prognosis, and treatment. Relevant findings are currently being actively submitted for publication.
Furthermore, Jing-Ya has actively participated in and contributed to the publication of several papers alongside her colleagues in the laboratory, including Nature Medicine, Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Journal of Clinical Investigation, Science Immunology, and Current Opinion in Immunology. She made significant contributions to the Nature Medicine article. Jingya also contributed as the second author to another paper by her fellow doctoral candidate, Shih Han-Po, and hopes for its prompt publication. In addition to her publications, Jingya's work has contributed to two important patented inventions, one of which has been patented in Taiwan and the United States, while the other is undergoing patent review in multiple countries globally. This patent has also successfully undergone technology transfer, earning the laboratory the Ministry of Science and Technology Outstanding Technology Transfer Award.
Jing-Ya is incredibly dedicated, self-effacing, and wholeheartedly supports the progress of related projects in the laboratory. During a colleague's maternity leave, Jingya kindly stepped in to assist with administrative tasks, balancing two essential roles in the laboratory. She managed administrative tasks such as project proposal applications and reimbursements, alongside patient diagnosis. To fulfill these two significant responsibilities, Jingya dedicated over half a year of her time, working tirelessly without weekends and often exceeding 18-hour workdays, essentially single-handedly supporting the entire experiment.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jing-Ya for her invaluable contributions to the laboratory.
Congratulations to Han-Po Shih on successfully passing the doctoral thesis defense and obtaining a doctoral degree!
2022.05.23
Doctoral Program of Han-Po Shih
2 papers as the first author
6 papers as a co-author
2 patents with more than 6 inventors
2 technology transfers
1 Ministry of Science and Technology Technology Transfer Award
Thank you, Han-Po, for your dedication to the laboratory.
Thank you for the precious gift from the laboratory. I think I will use it to sign my marriage certificate~
Letter from Han-Po
---
I feel honored to have had you all by my side during these final years of my studies. The help you have given me far exceeds your imagination. Having partners to struggle together with is truly a blessing. I am delighted that, in this exciting journey, we have experienced the beauty along the way. Because of you all, the fruitful outcomes taste even sweeter!
I believe that my daily interactions with you show how much I value each and every one of you. It's like my mom always says, love cannot be discounted, and all I can give is plenty of love!
Thank you to the laboratory for providing me with ample nourishment, allowing me to grow solidly over these years. Given time, if there is anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to let me know. I will use my strong shoulders to help you climb higher and see farther!
Thank you for being my partners, and you will always be. I believe we will continue to meet often! Thank you all!
Han-Po
2022.06.02
Congratulations to Dr. Charlene Huang on successfully passing the doctoral dissertation defense and obtaining the doctoral degree.
2022.04.18
Congratulations to Dr. Charlene Huang on passing the doctoral dissertation defense and obtaining the doctoral degree. Dr. Huang is a dedicated dermatologist who is deeply involved in the field of vitiligo. In addition to introducing various treatments and diagnostics in clinical practice, she also aspires to engage in basic research to understand the mechanisms and treatments of this disease.
If you would like to learn more about vitiligo, you can visit Dr. Huang's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/drcharlene.cyng.
Dr. Huang is diligent and often engages in discussions with me about experiments, and she handles her manuscript submissions herself. Her research has revealed the potential role of gamma interferon in the toxicity of melanocytes, which can serve as a diagnostic marker. Dr. Huang's research aims to combine relevant laboratory work to develop new treatment approaches for vitiligo, and she is actively progressing towards clinical trials. We have high hopes for her work and look forward to positive outcomes in the near future.
Due to the pandemic, Dr. Huang's defense was conducted online, which prevented us from sharing her achievements and joy in person and receiving everyone's blessings. It is indeed regrettable.
FISS2022 SPECIAL SUMMER PROGRAM
2022.03.24
Due to the ongoing and unpredictable nature of the pandemic, we have decided to postpone FISS2021 for two years until spring 2023, and it will be renamed as FISS2023. We understand the enthusiasm of young scholars for immunology research and their support and anticipation for the FISS. Therefore, we have decided to organize a special four-day summer program, FISS2022 Special Summer Program, in August 2022 specifically for doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and dental/medical professionals studying immunology in Taiwan.
This special summer program will feature exciting opening and closing lectures, academic research presentations by domestic and international scholars, as well as poster exhibitions and discussions. In addition, we will offer three thematic workshops focusing on how to deliver effective presentations, how to develop a well-designed research proposal, and career planning in the biomedical field. We welcome doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and young medical professionals to join us in this event.
Best Oral Presentation, Poster, and FISS Awards in CSIT (Chinese Society of Immunology, Taiwan)
2021.10.17
Congratulations to the laboratory members:
- Jhan-Jie Peng for receiving the Best Oral Presentation Award and FISS Travel Grant.
- Han-Po Shih for receiving the Best Poster Award and FISS Travel Grant.
- Tsai-Yi Wu for receiving the FISS Travel Grant.
Welcome Yu-Pei Joining
2021.9
Graduated from the Department of Medical Laboratory Science at National Taiwan University. We warmly welcome her to join our vitiligo research team in the laboratory.
Research
We are a research team based in Taiwan
Anticytokine autoantibodies and infectious diseases
Pathogenesis of anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies
"Anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies are a newly observed pathological mechanism. Patients with anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies are primarily adults, and their clinical symptoms are severe mycobacterial infections. Taiwan is a region with a high prevalence of anti-IFN-gamma autoantibody diseases. We discovered a specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotype DRB1*16:02/DQB105:02 highly associated with anti-IFN-gamma autoantibody diseases (Chi, Blood 2013).
We also recruited 145 patients with anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies from different countries, particularly in Southeast Asia. These patients exhibited varying degrees of antibody neutralization, indicating a strong correlation between anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies and the HLA-DRB115:02/16:02 and -DQB105:01/05:02 genotypes. Such a strong correlation suggests that these genotypes may directly interfere with the production of anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies (Ku, J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016).
Our research further points out that the autoantibodies in patients specifically recognize the carboxyl end of IFN-gamma. Such autoantibodies are likely induced by Aspergillus infection through molecular mimicry. We also designed a new recombinant IFN-gamma (Epitope-deleted IFN-gamma). This Epitope-deleted IFN-gamma can evade the neutralization of anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies by altering the antigenic determinant. It can restore IFN-gamma signaling in the whole blood of patients with anti-IFN-gamma autoimmunity, potentially serving as a treatment for these patients against persistent mycobacterial infections (Lin, Nat Med 2016).
Additionally, such autoantibody-induced immunodeficiency also leads to Penicillium marneffei infection. Anti-IFN-gamma autoantibodies are found in over 95% of non-HIV patients with Penicillium marneffei infection. Clinically, this explains why there are such fungal infection issues in southern China. Scientifically, it demonstrates the role of IFN-gamma in controlling fungal infections in humans (Guo, J Exp Med 2020)."
Researching Autobody Antibodies through the Establishment of Single B Cell Cloning Technique
Antigen-baiting Technique and Switch-memory B cell Technique for Specific Antigen Cloning
Antibodies play a crucial role in combating pathogen infections and autoimmune diseases. Cloning human monoclonal antibodies is an important technique that allows us to study the human immune response to specific antigens and understand the characteristics of the generated antibodies. By directly cloning antibody genes from individual B cells and expressing monoclonal antibodies, we can isolate many rare or difficult-to-clone human monoclonal antibodies.
Our laboratory focuses on the long-term research of autobody antibodies, including anti-interferon-gamma autobody antibodies and other anti-cellular cytokine autobody antibodies. We also study the characteristics of anti-cellular cytokine antibodies in patients, particularly the antibody antigen-binding region and antibody properties. To achieve this, we have established a single B cell cloning platform to clone monoclonal antibodies against interferon-gamma from patients. The medical knowledge derived from analyzing the characteristics of naturally occurring human antibodies will contribute to breakthroughs in clinical and immunological medicine. We will also utilize this platform to study other autobody diseases.
We have achieved significant milestones in this field, including the technology transfer of two human antibodies and obtaining patents in multiple countries.
Cryptococcal infection
Diseases associated with anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies
Cryptococcus gattii is a newly classified opportunistic fungal pathogen primarily found in individuals with compromised immune systems, including HIV patients or those with other immunodeficiencies. Infection with Cryptococcus gattii can lead to severe cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, causing irreversible brain damage and even death. Interestingly, such fungal infections can also occur in seemingly healthy individuals. Further research has revealed that some of these patients are affected by the presence of anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies (Kuo, J Clin Immunol 2017).
We continue to collect and study these patients to gain a better understanding of the immunological implications of anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies and explore the neutralizing mechanisms of these antibodies
Severe enterovirus infection and congenital immunodeficiency
Using sequencing and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies to identify congenital immunodeficiencies.
Previous studies have suggested that severe viral encephalitis may be caused by congenital immunodeficiency in patients. Based on this hypothesis, we aim to identify potential immunodeficiencies associated with severe enterovirus infection. Our research has revealed that severe enterovirus encephalitis is caused by TLR3 gene deficiency (Kuo, J Clin Immunol, 2022).
Another focus of our research lies in chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), a chronic yeast infection affecting the skin and mucous membranes. This type of infection has been associated with deficiencies in STAT1 or Th17-related genes.
We will utilize next-generation sequencing to identify the causative genes related to these infections in the Taiwanese population.
Mechanism of action of membranous nephropathy antibodies.
Analysis of the pathogenic mechanism of anti-PLA2R autoantibodies in membranous nephropathy.
Membranous nephropathy is an autoimmune kidney disease characterized by a group of autoantibodies. Among them, anti-PLA2R autoantibodies are the most common type. Our laboratory is dedicated to analyzing the antibody characteristics in patients with membranous nephropathy in Taiwan and aims to elucidate the pathogenic factors associated with these antibodies.
Publications
自2010 ~
Metabolic challenges and interventions in CAR T cell therapy
Peng, Sci Immunol 2023
This article primarily reviews successful cases in cancer treatment in the past and discusses the challenges encountered in CAR-T cell therapy. It further explores the potential of modulating the tumor microenvironment to enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy by adjusting the metabolism of specific cancer cells. Through the collective efforts of numerous scientists, it is believed that new treatment options will be discovered for more cancer patients or those with specific diseases.
Pathogenic autoantibodies to IFN-γ act through the impedance of receptor assembly and Fc-mediated response
Shih, J Exp Med 2022
Three major types of human anti-IFN-γ-autoantibody are classified by the different recognizing epitopes, that may interfere with the patient's immune system by ADCC, CDC, or forming an immune complex.
Cryptococcus gattii infection as the major clinical manifestation in patients with autoantibodies against granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor
Wang, J Clin Immunol 2022
Anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies are highly associated with C. gattii infection and pulmonary alveolar protienosis (PAP), in which symptoms seldom co-occur. We describe and further analyze the anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies properties of our cohort to understand the pathogenesis of anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies better.
Correction to: Life-threatening Enterovirus 71 encephalitis in unrelated children with autosomal dominant TLR3 deficiency
Kuo, JCI 2022
The investigation of TLR3 defects in three young patients with EV71-related encephalitis in this paper may embody an intrinsic genetic defect of TLR3-dependent antiviral immunity.
Skin interstitial fluid and plasma multiplex cytokine analysis reveals IFN-γ signatures and granzyme B as useful biomarker for activity, severity and prognosis assessment in Vitiligo
Ng, Front Immunol 2022
IFN-γ exerts the highest predictive value in disease activity and treatment response, supporting the critical role of IFN-γ in the pathogenesis of vitiligo.
Anti-interferon-γ autoantibody-associated immunodeficiency
Shih, Cur Opin Immunol 2021
Anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies (AIGAs) may, thus, be considered a new form of late-onset immunodeficiency conferring a predisposition not only to severe mycobacterial infections but also to some bacterial and fungal infections.
Anti–IFN-γ autoantibodies underlie disseminated Talaromyces marneffei infections
Guo, J Exp Med 2020
Talaromyces marneffei, commonly known as Penicillium marneffei, has been considered a low-virulence fungus, primarily associated with immunodeficiency caused by HIV infection. However, this fungus sometimes causes severe infections in immunocompetent individuals, the reasons for which remain unclear. What is even more intriguing is that this fungal infection is predominantly found in Southeast Asia and southern China, particularly in the Guangxi region.
We have discovered that nearly 95% of previously unexplained cases of Talaromyces marneffei infection were attributed to the presence of anti-interferon-gamma autoantibodies. These patients differ from those typically associated with interferon-gamma-related immunodeficiency, as they primarily exhibit only Talaromyces marneffei infection instead of typical opportunistic infections. This further highlights the role of interferon-gamma not only in controlling bacterial and intracellular infections but also in controlling fungal infections, at least in the case of Talaromyces marneffei. We have also successfully predicted the prevalence of this disease, anti-interferon-gamma autoantibody-related, specifically among certain ethnic groups in southern China.
Autoantibodies against cytokines: phenocopies of primary immunodeficiencies?
Ku, Hum Genet 2020
Review and compare the anti-cytokine autoantibodies and the corresponding genetic defects.
Disseminated cryptococcosis due to anti-Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor autoantibodies in the absence of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
Kuo, J Clin Immunol 2017
Anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies increase susceptibility to cryptococcal infection in adults without pulmonary alveolar proteinosis.
Identification of a major epitope by anti-Interferon-γ autoantibodies in patients with mycobacterial disease
Lin, Nat Med 2016
Identify the epitope of anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies. We also claimed that molecular mimicry might be a reason for the production of anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies by our patients.
Clinical manifestations, course, and outcome of patients with neutralizing anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies and disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial infections
Chi, Medicine 2016
Clinical feature of patients with anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies.
Anti–IFN-γ autoantibodies are strongly associated with HLA-DR*15:02/16:02 and HLA-DQ*05:01/05:02 across Southeast Asia
Ku, J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016
Strongly associated with HLA-DRB1*15:02/16:02 and HLA-DQB1*05:01/05:02 across Southeast Asia.
Anti–IFN-γ autoantibodies in adults with disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial infections are associated with HLA-DRB1*16:02 and HLA-DQB1*05:02 and the reactivation of latent varicella-zoster virus infection
Chi, Blood 2013
High Prevalence of anti-IFNγ autoantibodies in Taiwanese patients with disseminated NTM infection (dNTM).
PI
Cheng-Lung Ku, Ph.D.
Positions:
2021 - Present: Professor, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chang Gung University
2021 - Present: Director, Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Chang Gung University
2018 - Present: Founder and Executive Chair, Formosa Immuno Spring School and Conference
2023 - Present: Joint-appointed Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Linkou Chang Gung Hospital
Education:
2007 Ph.D. in Immunology, Paris Descartes University (Paris V)
2000 M.S. in Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University
1998 B.S. in Animal Science, National Taiwan University
Experience:
2022-2023: Senior Director, BeiGene Cell Therapy
2021-2022: Secretary-General, Chinese Society of Immunology
2018-2021: Deputy Secretary-General, Chinese Society of Immunology
2018-2022: Joint-appointed Associate Professor, Department of Nephrology, Linkou Chang Gung Hospital
2017-2022: Adjunct Associate Professor, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
2017-2021: Scientific Advisor and Director, Elixiron Therapeutic
2017: Co-founder, Elixiron Therapeutic
2016-2021: Associate Professor, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chang Gung University
2010-2016: Assistant Professor, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chang Gung University
2008-2010: Assistant Professor, China Medical University
Honors:
2022: Chang Gung University Excellent Teacher Research Award
2021: Ministry of Science and Technology Outstanding Research Award
2021: Chang Gung University Excellent Teacher Research Award
2020: Chang Gung University Excellent Teacher Technology Collaboration Award
2019: Ministry of Science and Technology Outstanding Technology Transfer Contribution Award
2019: Chang Gung University Excellent Teacher Technology Collaboration Award
2019: Ministry of Science and Technology Outstanding Young Scholar Research Project
2017: Academia Sinica Young Scholar Research Publication Award
2017: Chang Gung University Excellent Teacher Research Award
2016: Ministry of Science and Technology Wu Ta-You Memorial Award
2016: Immunology Association Outstanding Research Award
2016: Chang Gung University Excellent Teacher Research Award
2016: Ministry of Science and Technology Outstanding Young Scholar Research Project
2013: Keystone Symposia Global Health Travel Award, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Selected publictions:
- Peng JJ, Wang L, LiZ, Ku CL*, Ho PC. Metabolic challenges and interventions in CAR T cell therapy. Sci Immunol. 8(82):eabq3016. doi:10.1126/sciimmunol.abq3016.
- Ng CY, Chiu YC, Chan YP, Lin YJ, Chung PH, Chung WH, Ku CL*. Skin Interstitial Fluid and Plasma Multiplex Cytokine Analysis Reveals IFN-γ Signatures and Granzyme B as Useful Biomarker for Activity, Severity and Prognosis Assessment in Vitiligo. Frontiers in immunology. 2022. 13(872458. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2022.872458.
- Shih HP, Ding JY, Bellón JS, Lo YF, Chung PH, Ting HT, Peng JJ, Wu TY, Lin CH, Lo CC, Lin YN, Yeh CF, Chen JB, Wu TS, Liu YM, Kuo CY, Wang SY, Tu KH, Ng CY, Lei WT, Tsai YH, Chen JH, Chuang YT, Huang JY, Rey FA, Chen HK, Chang TW, Piehler J, Chi CY, Ku CL*. Pathogenic autoantibodies to IFN-γ act through the impedance of receptor assembly and Fc-mediated response. J Exp Med. 2022. 219 (9): e20212126.
- Kuo CY, Ku CL*, Lim HK, Hsia SH, Lin JJ, Lo CC, Ding JY, Kuo RL, Casanova JL, Zhang SY, Chang LY*, Lin TY*. Life-Threatening Enterovirus 71 Encephalitis in Unrelated Children with Autosomal Dominant TLR3 Deficiency. J. Clin. Immunol. 2022. doi:10.1007/s10875-021-01170-9.
- Shih HP, Ding JY, Yeh CF, Chi CY, Ku CL*. Anti-interferon-γ autoantibody-associated immunodeficiency. Curr. Opin. Immunol. 2021. 72:206-214.
- Guo J#, Ning XQ#, Ding JY#, Zheng YQ#, Shi NN, Wu FY, Lin YK, Shih HP, Ting HT, Liang G, Lu XC, Kong JL, Wang K, Lu YB, Fu YJ, Hu R, Li TM, Pan KS, Li XY, Huang CY, Lo YF, Chang IY, Yeh CF, Tu KH, Tsai YH, Ku CL*, Cao CW*. Anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies underlie disseminated Talaromyces marneffei infections. J Exp Med. 2020. 217(12):e20190502. (#共同作者)
- Ku CL*, Chi CY, von Bernuth H, and Doffinger R. Autoantibodies against cytokines: phenocopies of primary immunodeficiencies? Hum Genet. 2020. 139:783-794.
- Kuo CY, Wang SY, Shih HP, Tu KH, Huang WC, Ding JY, Lin CH, Yeh CF, Ho MW, Chang SC, He CY, Chen HK, Ho CH, Lee CH, Chi CY and Ku CL*. Disseminated cryptococcosis due to anti-granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor autoantibodies in the absence of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. J. Clin. Immunol. 2017, 37:143-152.
- Lin CH, Chi CY, Shih HP, Ding CT, Wang SY, Kuo CY, Yeh CF, Tu KH, Liu SH, Ho MW, Chen CK, Ho CH, Lee CH, and Ku CL*. Identification of a Major Epitope by Anti-Interferon-γ Autoantibodies in Patients with Mycobacterial Disease. Nat Med. 2016, 22:994-1001.
- Ku CL*, Lin CH, Chang SW, Chu CC, Chan JF, Kong XF, Lee CH, Rosen EA, Ding JY, Lee WI, Bustamante J, Witte T, Shih HP, Kuo CY, Chetchotisakd P, Kiertiburanakul S, Suputtamongkol Y, Yuen KY, Casanova JL, Holland SM, Doffinger R, Browne SK, and Chi CY. Anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies are strongly associated with HLA-DR*15:02/16:02 and HLA-DQ*05:01/05:02 across Southeast Asia. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2016, 137:945-948.e948.
- Chi CY, Chu CC, Liu JP, Lin CH, Ho MW, Lo WJ, Lin PC, Chen HJ, Chou CH, Feng JY, Fung CP, Sher YP, Li CY, Wang JH, and Ku CL*. Anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies in adults with disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial infections are associated with HLA-DRB1*16:02 and HLA-DQB1*05:02 and the reactivation of latent varicella-zoster virus infection. Blood. 2013, 121:1357-1366.
- von Bernuth H, Picard C, Jin Z, Pankla R, Xiao H, Ku CL, Chrabieh M, Mustapha IB, Ghandil P, Camcioglu Y, Vasconcelos J, Sirvent N, Guedes M, Vitor AB, Herrero-Mata MJ, Arostegui JI, Rodrigo C, Alsina L, Ruiz-Ortiz E, Juan M, Fortuny C, Yague J, Anton J, Pascal M, Chang HH, Janniere L, Rose Y, Garty BZ, Chapel H, Issekutz A, Marodi L, Rodriguez-Gallego C, Banchereau J, Abel L, Li X, Chaussabel D, Puel A, and Casanova JL. Pyogenic bacterial infections in humans with MyD88 deficiency. Science. 2008, 321:691-696.
- Ku CL, von Bernuth H, Picard C, Zhang SY, Chang HH, Yang K, Chrabieh M, Issekutz AC, Cunningham CK, Gallin J, Holland SM, Roifman C, Ehl S, Smart J, Tang M, Barrat FJ, Levy O, McDonald D, Day-Good NK, Miller R, Takada H, Hara T, Al-Hajjar S, Al-Ghonaium A, Speert D, Sanlaville D, Li X, Geissmann F, Vivier E, Marodi L, Garty BZ, Chapel H, Rodriguez-Gallego C, Bossuyt X, Abel L, Puel A, and Casanova JL. Selective predisposition to bacterial infections in IRAK-4-deficient children: IRAK-4-dependent TLRs are otherwise redundant in protective immunity. J Exp Med. 2007, 204:2407-2422.
- von Bernuth H, Ku CL*, Rodriguez-Gallego C, Zhang S, Garty BZ, Marodi L, Chapel H, Chrabieh M, Miller RL, Picard C, Puel A, and Casanova JL. A fast procedure for the detection of defects in Toll-like receptor signaling. Pediatrics. 2006, 118:2498-2503.
- Ku CL, Dupuis-Girod S, Dittrich AM, Bustamante J, Santos OF, Schulze I, Bertrand Y, Couly G, Bodemer C, Bossuyt X, Picard C, and Casanova JL. NEMO mutations in 2 unrelated boys with severe infections and conical teeth. Pediatrics. 2005, 115:e615-619.
- Ku CL, Yang K, Bustamante J, Puel A, von Bernuth H, Santos OF, Lawrence T, Chang HH, Al-Mousa H, Picard C, and Casanova JL. Inherited disorders of human Toll-like receptor signaling: immunological implications. Immunol Rev. 2005, 203:10-20.
- Picard C, Puel A, Bonnet M, Ku CL, Bustamante J, Yang K, Soudais C, Dupuis S, Feinberg J, Fieschi C, Elbim C, Hitchcock R, Lammas D, Davies G, Al-Ghonaium A, Al-Rayes H, Al-Jumaah S, Al-Hajjar S, Al-Mohsen IZ, Frayha HH, Rucker R, Hawn TR, Aderem A, Tufenkeji H, Haraguchi S, Day NK, Good RA, Gougerot-Pocidalo MA, Ozinsky A, and Casanova JL. Pyogenic bacterial infections in humans with IRAK-4 deficiency. Science. 2003, 299:2076-2079.
Lab Members
Both Biologist and Physician
郭貞孍 Kuo, Chen-Yen, M.D.
Ph.D. Candidate, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Attending Physician, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hosptial, Linkou
Research Topic: Inborn error of viral infections, severe COVID-19 infections in children
I love Hello Kitty
王尚煜 Wang, Shang-Yu, M.D.
Ph.D. student, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Attending Physician, Chang Gung Memorial Hosptial, Linkou
Research topic: Inborn error of viral infections, severe COVID-19 infections in children
塗昆樺 Tu, Kun-Hua, M.D.
Ph.D. student, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Attending Physician, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hosptial, Linkou
Research Topic: Membranous nephropathy
雷偉德 Lei, Wei-Te, M.D.
Ph.D. student, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Attending Physician, Department of Pediatrics, Mackay Memorial Hospital, HsinChu
Research Topic: Inborn genetic error with viral or fungal infections
羅郁方 Lo, Yu-Fang, M.S.
Ph.D. Candidate, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Master, Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing-Hua University
Research Topic: anti-GM-CSF autoantibodies
吳采薏 Wu, Tsai-Yi, M.S.
Ph.D. Candidate, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Master, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Yang-Ming University
Research Topic: anti-PLA2R autoantibodies
彭湛傑 Peng, Jhan-Jie, M.S.
Ph.D. Candidate, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Master, Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University
Bachelor, Department of Life Science, National Taiwan University
Research Topic: Cell therapy of anti-cytokine antibodies autoimmune diseases
林弓崴 Lin, Kung-Wei
Master student, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Bachelor, Department of Life Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Research Topic: Renal auto-antibodies research
羅佳祺 Lo, Chia-Chi, M.S.
Lab manager
Master, Graduate Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, China Medical University
Snoppy is the best!
康辰瑄 Kang, Chen-Xuan, M.S.
Scientist
Master, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Research topic: Anti-type I IFN autoantibodies
林宥甯 Lin, You-Ning, M.S.
Scientist
Master, Institute of Microbiology, Soochow University
Research topic: Anti-IFN-gamma autoantibody diseases, protein expression system
詹羽珮 Chan, Yu-Pei
Scientist
Bachelor, Dep. of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, National Taiwan University
Research topic: COVID-19 infections
丁靜雅 博士 Ding, Jing-Ya Ph.D.
PostDoc, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Ph.D., Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Research topic: Anti-IFN-gamma autoantibody diseases
葉峻甫 Yeh, Chun-Fu, M.D.
Co-principal investigator
Attending physician, Chang Gung Memorial Hosptial, Linkuo
Research topic: Anti-IFN-gamma autoantibody diseases
齊治宇醫師 博士 Chi, Chih-Yu, M.D., Ph.D.
Co-principal investigator
Infectious Disease Specialist at China Medical University Hospital
Research topic: Clinical research on anti-IFN-gamma autoantibody diseases
黃昭瑜醫師 博士 Cyng, Charlene, M.D., Ph.D.
Co-principal investigator
Dermatologist at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou
Research topic: Diagnosis and treatment of vitiligo
李宜哲 碩士 Lee, Yi-Che, M.S.
Scientist
Master, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Technology, Taiwan University
Research topic: COVID-19-related gene deficiency
黃昱勳 碩士 Huang, Yu-Hsu, M.S.
Scientist
Master, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Technology, Taiwan University
Research topic: Cancer Immunoloty
施瀚博 博士 Shih, Han-Po, Ph.D.
Post Doc
Ph.D., Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University
Research topic: Cancer Immunoloty
alumni Ph.D.
Both Biologist and Physician
齊治宇醫師 博士
Chi, Chih-Yu, M.D., Ph.D.
2013
Graduate Institute of Clinical Meidcal Science,
China Medical Univeristy
Attending physician, China Medical University Hospital
林嘉豪 博士
Lin, Chia-Hao, Ph.D.
2017
Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences,
Chang Gung Univeristy
PostDoct at UCSD
黃昭瑜 醫師 博士
Cyng, Charlen, M.D., Ph.D.
2013
Graduate Institute of Clinical Meidcal Sciences,
Chang Gung Univeristy
Attending physician, Chang Gung Memorial Hosptial, Linkuo
施瀚博 博士
Shih, Han-Po, Ph.D.
2022
Graduate Institute of Clinical Meidcal Sciences,
Chang Gung Univeristy
丁靜雅 博士
Ding, Jing-Ya, Ph.D.
2022
Graduate Institute of Clinical Meidcal Sciences,
Chang Gung Univeristy
丁鶴婷
Ting, He-Ting, Ph.D. candidate
2022
Graduate Institute of Clinical Meidcal Sciences,
Chang Gung Univeristy
Alumni
Undergraduate students, short-term exchange students, researchers
Contact us
If you're interested in our research, feel free to get in touch with us. You are most welcome to visit our HIID lab and have a cup of coffee with us.
Email
clku@
cgu.edu.tw 
Address
Chang Gung University, No.259, Wenhua 1st Rd., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan
Telephone (Lab)
(03) 211-8800#3496
I-Club
Chang Gung University
Photo
Our memory
