Kreer, Christoph - CAP 45
Immunodynamics and Molecular Evolution
PD Dr. Christoph Kreer
Institute of Virology
CMMC - PI - CAP 45
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Institute of Virology
Fürst-Pückler-Str. 56
50935 Cologne
Introduction
B-cells generate antibody responses against newly encountered pathogens and establish immunological memory that protects against reinfection. However, rapidly evolving pathogens can escape humoral immunity, while processes such as immunodominance and immune imprinting may constrain the adaptation of antibody responses. At the same time, antigen evolution is limited by molecular and functional requirements.
Our research investigates the reciprocal adaptation of humoral immunity and antigens across molecular, cellular, and systemic scales. We study clinically relevant human pathogens, with a particular focus on influenza viruses and coronaviruses, as well as complementary disease settings such as cancer. By integrating antibody- and antigen-centered perspectives, our work connects the dynamics of B-cell selection with the molecular and functional constraints that shape antigen evolution.
Aims
Our research focuses on three interconnected aspects of humoral immunity and antigen evolution.
- First, we investigate how B-cell selection, immunodominance, and immune imprinting shape antibody responses to antigenic variation.
- Second, we study how molecular and functional constraints define the evolutionary trajectories available to antigens under immune pressure.
- Third, we explore how B-cell responses are organized across tissues and how local and systemic humoral immunity are connected.
Together, these perspectives provide a framework for understanding the dynamics of antibody responses and antigen adaptation across different disease contexts.
Clinical Relevance
Ineffective or evaded antibody responses contribute to numerous human diseases. In viral infections, antigenic evolution can limit durable protection after infection or vaccination, while local B-cell responses in cancer may reveal disease-associated antigens and mechanisms of immune control.
By defining the principles that govern antibody responses and antigen evolution, our research seeks to improve the understanding and prediction of immune escape and to identify vulnerable or functionally constrained antigenic targets. In the long term, these insights may provide a basis for improved preventive and therapeutic strategies that broaden or redirect humoral immunity.
Lab Website
For more information check the Website of AG Kreer.
Affiliations - Christoph Kreer
Publications generated with CMMC affiliation
2026
Publications will be listed as soon as available.