Tissue morphodynamics
Role of cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix adhesion in the determination of tissue structure. Cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix: regulation of cell motility and proliferation. Mechanisms of intercellular invasion. Regulation of embryonic morphogenesis. Mode of action of peptide growth factors.
Comparative immunology
Comparative biology of evolutionarily conserved effectors of the innate immune system: a2-macroglobulin & C-reactive protein. Role of the blood clotting system in immunity. Lipopolysaccharide/endotoxin: immune defense against endotoxemia, phylogenetic distribution of lipopolysaccharide.