Washington University in St. Louis (WU)
Research in the Randolph laboratory integrates the study of monocytes, monocyte-derived cells, and dendritic cells with vascular and lymphatic vessel biology. We have pioneered assays to study migration of these immune cells to lymph nodes in various tissues, and our work on tracking monocytes has led to advances in understanding the relationship of monocytes to the dendritic cell system in vivo. We have also developed assays to study the differentiation and migration of human monocytes and dendritic cells across vascular and lymphatic barriers. We aim to delineate the role of macrophages and dendritic cells in chronic inflammation and their relationship to the lymphatic system. The laboratory has a track-record of research contributions in atherosclerosis and is initiating efforts in the areas of type II diabetes and Crohn’s disease.