A main focus of the Burgdorf group is the regulation of immune cell function by metabolic changes. Of special interest are macrophages, which are gatekeepers at the balance between homeostais and immunity.

We investigate the effect of hyperglycemia (increased blood sugar concentrations) and high caloric intake on the functionality of macrophages, their intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis and concomitant signaling, ER functionality, whole body metabolism, metaflammation and obesity.

Of special interest is the role of the Mannose Receptor (MR), a C-type lectin protein, which is shed into a soluble form and released into the extracelluar space. We could identify the soluble MR being critically involved in macrophage activation, and hence in the onset of metaflammation and obesity.