Abstract
This dissertation investigates the diversity and function of dendritic cells (DCs) and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) across different human tissues and developmental stages. Using single-cell RNA sequencing and other high-dimensional computational immunology techniques, we identified a novel subset of an antigen-presenting cell expressing the transcription factor RORγt, characterized tissue-specific states of plasmacytoid DCs in children and adults, and uncovered a spectrum of group 1 ILC subtypes. Key findings include the discovery of human RORγt+ DC-like cells with proliferative potential, age- and tissue-dependent dynamics of plasmacytoid DC function and development, and the identification of tissue-imprinted NK cells phenotypically resembling ILC1s. This research provides critical insights into the heterogeneity and plasticity of innate immune cell populations, with implications for understanding immune homeostasis, inflammation, and potential therapeutic targets in autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Committee Chair
Marco Colonna
Committee Members
Kenneth Murphy; Megan Murphy; Richard Hotchkiss; Ting Wang
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Author's Department
Biology & Biomedical Sciences (Immunology)
Document Type
Dissertation
Date of Award
5-8-2025
Language
English (en)
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7936/bbyb-ba76
Author's ORCID
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-0077-7964
Recommended Citation
Ulezko Antonova, Alina, "Computational Dissection of Innate Immune Cell States: Tissue-Driven Heterogeneity Across Human Development" (2025). Arts & Sciences Theses and Dissertations. 3482.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.7936/bbyb-ba76