The impact of inflammatory mediators on nanotopography of surface receptors in T cells

Mediators of inflammation regulate events associated with the onset, progress and resolution of inflammatory response. Their impact on T-cell activation and homeostasis are well documented. Here, we will investigate the impact of physico-chemical properties (oxidative state and hyperthermia) of the inflammatory environment on T-cell surface morphology and 3D nanoscopic organisation of signalling receptors. Complex surface morphology with microvilli was recently shown to be essential for T-cell function. Microvilli provide excellent compartments for spatio-temporal organisation of early signalling events. Any changes to these structures can affect T-cell activation and dysregulate inflammation. We will further monitor T-cell surface changes caused by inflammatory lipid mediators such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes and other metabolites of polyunsaturated fatty acids. This study will contribute to our understanding of acute and chronic inflammatory processes and, potentially, age-related conditions.