The gastrointestinal tract is the largest immune organ of the human body and represents a vast surface to the external environment. Founded in 2007 the Gastrointestinal Immunology research group is dedicated to investigate this exciting immune organ. Specifically, we aim to identify mechanisms, risk factors and treatment options in food allergy and other IgE mediated diseases. Additionally, we are characterizing immune signatures of Post-COVID syndrome and ME/CFS patients. Investigating the contribution of the gastrointestinal immune system to these diseases is crucial to identifying markers for predicting long-term effects of infectious diseases. Moreover, we are currently establishing the first Austrian ME/CFS biobank. Eva Untersmayr-Elsenhuber is co-director of the Austrian National Reference Center for Post-viral Syndromes commissioned to the Medical University of Vienna by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection.
