Ciriaco Piccirillo

Ciriaco Piccirillo is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at McGill University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and a Senior Scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), Glen site. He is affiliated with the Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program and the Centre for Translational Biology, as well as the Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy & Immunology at the MUHC.

Dr. Piccirillo's research primarily focuses on the regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses mediated by Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells, a unique population of CD4+ T cells with potent immunosuppressive functions in humans and mice. His work investigates how normal development and function of these cells is essential for protection from autoimmune diseases, and how developmental or functional defects provoke inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. His laboratory employs a spectrum of molecular and cellular approaches to study Treg cell development, dynamics, and molecular basis of function in health and disease.

His recent research has examined Treg cell deficiencies in various inflammatory disorders, particularly autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes (T1D). Dr. Piccirillo's work has been responsible for many seminal studies over the past decade related to Treg cell function and mechanism of action in animal models, non-human primates, and humans. His research spans multiple areas including immunology, T cell biology, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions.

Analysis of Dr. Piccirillo's recent publications reveals a strong focus on regulatory T cell biology across various disease contexts including autoimmune disorders, cancer immunology, and infectious diseases. His work frequently examines the molecular mechanisms of Treg cell function, their role in disease pathogenesis, and potential therapeutic applications. Recent studies have explored the relationship between Treg cells and conditions such as nephrotic syndrome, melanoma, type 1 diabetes, and SARS-CoV-2 immunity, demonstrating the breadth of his research impact.

Dr. Piccirillo has been actively involved in numerous research collaborations across immunology and related fields. His work has contributed significantly to understanding the role of regulatory T cells in immune homeostasis and their potential as therapeutic targets for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

He leads a research team focused on translational immunology, working to bridge basic discoveries in Treg cell biology with potential clinical applications. His laboratory is part of the vibrant research community at the RI-MUHC, contributing to the institute's mission of advancing medical knowledge through innovative research.