A main focus of the Burgdorf group is the molecular mechanisms underlying antigen cross-presentation. In particular, we are interested in the role of endocytosis receptors and antigen routing into endosome subsets in antigen presentation. Additionally, we focus on the molecular mechanisms of antigen translocation into the cytosol, an important prerequisite of cross-presentation thought to be mediated by members of the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) machinery. We investigate the recruitment of ERAD components to antigen-containing endosomes and the influence of maturation stimuli.

Additionally, our group investigates a regulatory function of endocytic receptors. In current projects, we analyze a direct influence of the mannose receptor (MR) on the activity of other immune cells and a more general role of endocytic receptor in maintaining the balance between tolerance and immunity.