Dr. Jennifer Oyler-Yaniv

In our lab, we focus on studying immune regulation through a biophysical lens. Our work is guided by fundamental principles of dynamical systems theory in reaction-diffusion systems. 

This enables us to understand how different cell types interact and form dynamic and interdependent circuits, to orchestrate a robust immune response that is both effective against pathogens and specific enough to minimize host damage.

We are particularly interested in how these cellular interactions are modulated within the spatial context of living tissues. An often neglected aspect of cellular interaction, the dense and three-dimensional architecture of tissues is not merely a passive background; it actively influences communication between cells. By studying these interactions in their native context, we show how spatial organization and local cellular composition affect signaling and function in the immune system.

To achieve our goals, we developed a multidisciplinary approach that integrates biophysical theory with state-of-the-art experimental techniques. Our innovative 3D cell culture methods allow us to more closely emulate living tissues, while maintaining the flexibility and control of in vitro experiments. In parallel, we use in vivo mouse models to observe the immune response in whole organs using light-sheet microscopy, spatial transcriptomics, and multiplexed immunofluorescence techniques.

Complementing our experimental work, we rely heavily on mathematical modeling and theory. Through this modeling, we aim to capture the emergent properties of cellular collectives that define living tissues. Our focus is on uncovering fundamental rules that govern how individual cellular actions give rise to the collective dynamics observed in the immune response.