Innate Immunity at Biomineralized Barriers

Integrated innate immunity of the avian egg to protect its contents are a critical underpinning of the remarkable evolutionary success of birds. After laying, the initial protective structures of the egg are rapidly and dramatically altered during embryonic development. Concomitantly, the embryo-generated extra-embryonic tissues develop to counteract the degradation of primary egg defenses. Professor Hincke’s research project studies the progressive transformation of egg innate immunity over the 21-day course of embryo growth and development, in order to gain insight into the fundamental interplay between autonomous development and maternal anticipation. In particular, the dual role of the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) for concurrent demineralization of the shell and establishment of a new antimicrobial barrier has been a field for intense scrutiny. The hosting INRAE team DOVE "Défenses de l’Oeuf, Valorisation, Evolution" is an international centre of excellence, and a fertile location for the STUDIUM experience of Professor Maxwell Hincke to decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying innate immunity in the context of a model of decalcification of a biomineralized tissue.