David Furman

Microbiology and Immunology

Project: “High throughput multiparameter analysis of human immune responses to influenza vaccination”

Primary Mentor: Mark Davis, Burt and Marion Avery Family Professor of Microbiology and Immunology

David Furman received his PhD in Human Biochemistry from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2008. His research is focused in better understanding the aging of the immune system. Long standing evidence has shown that the immune system is severely affected with age. As a consequence, inability to respond against primary or secondary antigenic challenges is often observed in the elderly, a condition known as immunosenescence. The most important health outcomes of immunosenescence are the increased rates of morbidity and mortality due to respiratory syncytial virus and Influenza A infections. Using the Influenza A model, Dr. Furman’s research is focused in elucidating the cellular and molecular mechanisms of human immunosenescence to define immunological ‘metrics’ of human health. Overriding objectives of his research include: (i) Identification of novel biomarkers for monitoring immunosenescence and function, and (ii) Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the senescence and dysregulation of immune responses. Advances in these areas may provide for improved diagnostic monitoring and therapeutic interventions that will significantly improve the health and lives of many people.

Email: [email protected]