My laboratory focuses on the molecular mechanisms of innate immune events promoting non-resolving inflammation leading to tissue destruction. We investigate the attack mechanisms instrumental in tissues targeted for destruction with an emphasis on autoimmune disease. Conversely, we probe for barriers that are critical checkpoints poised to protect the tissue from assaults. Our penultimate goal is to identify the cells and molecules instrumental in the pathogenesis of tissue damage. The final goal is to construct a therapeutic strategies to block tissue destruction. As inflammation is meant to be a healing process, our concept is that destructive inflammation is the consequence of defective repair mechanisms. Our projects encompass basic experimental strategies and translational studies. We are probing for the triggers that incite destructive inflammation and biomarkers that guide individualized patient management. We use unique mutant strains and reporter mice to test the importance of a selected molecule in innate immunity and auto-destructive processes.