Immunotherapies, Inflammation and Cancer
von Gunten Group

Our laboratory is interested in molecular mechanisms and drugs that control inflammation and cancer. In particular, we focus on protein-carbohydrate interactions in the immune system and on anti-inflammatory effects mediated by Siglec receptors. Siglecs are carbohydrate-binding receptors (lectins) that have recently received particular attention in light of the capacity to mediate cell death, anti-proliferative effects, and inhibition of cellular activities. We recently identified natural autoantibodies within human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) as endogenous Siglec receptor ligands.

The group leader Prof. Dr. S. von Gunten is a participating investigator at the Consortium of Functional Glycomics (www.functionalglycomics.org), funded by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), that aims at defining paradigms by which protein-carbohydrate interactions mediate cell communication. Our group has collaborations with scientists and clinicians from many international and local academic institutions, companies and hospitals.

Prof. Dr. Dr. Stephan von Gunten
Research group 2025

Projects

Project leader: Prof. Stephan von Gunten

Image: S1P in fibrotic niche

Glycolipids and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in kidney health and disease

This project investigates how naturally occurring fats and sugar-linked fats in the body—known as lipids and glycolipids—help maintain kidney health and contribute to disease. A central focus is a molecule called sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), which acts as a key messenger between cells, guiding how they respond to stress and injury. Although S1P is known to be important, its precise role within certain kidney cells remains unclear. The research centers on podocytes, highly specialized cells that form a crucial part of the kidney’s filtration system. These cells prevent essential proteins from leaking into the urine. When podocytes are damaged, this protective barrier breaks down, leading to conditions marked by protein loss (albuminuria), inflammation, and scarring (fibrosis). Our work examines how changes in S1P levels inside cells influence podocyte behavior and their communication with neighboring cells. We pay particular attention to the enzymes that regulate S1P, as they may play a decisive role in how kidney diseases develop and how patients respond to treatment. In addition, we study glycosphingolipids—molecules formed when sugars attach to lipids—which are involved in “outside-in” signaling and interactions between podocytes and immune cells. These processes are essential for preserving the integrity of the kidney’s filtration barrier. A key aim of the project is to understand why some patients do not respond well to standard steroid therapies and to identify more effective alternatives. By uncovering these underlying mechanisms, this research seeks to open new paths for treatment and ultimately improve outcomes for people living with kidney disease.

Project leader: Prof. Stephan von Gunten and postdoctoral researcher Lukas Mürner

Innovative methodology to investigate complex glycan structures on pancreatic cancer cells

Complex sugar structures (glycans) on the surface of pancreatic cancer cells play a crucial role in central biological processes such as tumor growth, metastasis, and evasion of anti-tumoral immune defense mechanisms. Despite their promising diagnostic and therapeutic potential, these structurally diverse carbohydrates have so far eluded comprehensive analysis with currently available methods. By employing cutting-edge technologies in combination with innovative screening strategies and novel approaches for generating glycan-specific reagents, a deeper understanding of the functional and biological relevance of these sugar structures can now be achieved. This unprecedented analytical depth not only promises an expanded understanding of the molecular properties of pancreatic tumors, but also the development of new diagnostic standards as well as the identification of potential therapeutic targets.

Group Members

Prof. Dr. Stephan von Gunten, MD, PhD, MME

Group members

former Group members

Alisha Eigenheer (2026)
Dr. Aref Hosseini, (2020-2026)
Barbara Márquez Gutiérrez, (2026)
Elena Sita Schranz (2026)
Sheila Romina Pasi (2026)
Mathangi Sivaseelan (2024-2025)
Jennice Pick, master student (2024-2025)
Riim Nasser, laboratory technician (2018-2025)
Dr. Quentin Haas
Dr. Kayluz Frias Boligan
Dr. Stefanie Graeter
Dr. Fabiola Schorer
Dr. Christoph Schneider
Dr. Dr. Marc Wehrli, MD Doktorand (2010-2013)  
Dr. Thomas Demoulins, Postdoc (2010-2012)
Dr. Dr. Camilla Jandus, Postdoc (2010-2012)

Publications

Publication Year Type