The basic research in the Section of Rheumatology focuses on the biology of T and B lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are essential for the elimination of microbial pathogens and tumors, but are also responsible for the development of autoimmune diseases and the rejection of transplanted organs. Understanding how T and B lymphocytes develop and become activated is important to create the new generation of immunosuppressive agents that target selective lymphocytes responsible for disease.

The basic research team comprises Marcus Clark, MD, Chief of the Section of Rheumatology and Professor of Medicine, Maria-Luisa Alegre, MD, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Medicine and Fontini Gounari , PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine.

The research performed in the Section of Rheumatology is conducted in a recently completely renovated space, comprising over 2,000 square feet of laboratory space including tissue culture room, cold room, dark room, radioactivity-usage room etc. This space is adjacent to the offices of the clinical and basic researchers and to the secretarial and section administrative offices.