About Us

Head: Elisabeth Brambilla
Secretary: Thomas Geiser

This Assembly provides the necessary forum for interaction between basic scientists and practicing clinicians interested in the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved within the healthy and diseased lung. It is also responsible for tracking scientific developments that easily translate into better diagnostic technologies and/or enhanced patient care. This has allowed collaborative forums with the other clinical Assemblies of the ERS.

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Group 03.01 Molecular Pathology and Functional Genomics

Chair: Philipp A. Schnabel
Secretary: Bruno Crestani

The objectives of this Group are to make progress in the understanding of  various mechanisms involved in lung biology (including lung development) and lung pathophysiology. Its organisation is dedicated to bringing together basic research and clinical investigation. Its aim is to provide new developments at the cellular and molecular levels and new approaches for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases.

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Group 03.02 Airway Cell Biology and Immunopathology

Chair: Pieter S. Hiemstra
Secretary: Catherine Greene

The cells that constitute the airway wall and line the airways have an important role in many different diseases, such as asthma, cancer or pneumonia. They are central elements in innate and adaptive immunity, carcinogenesis and remodeling of the airway wall. This Group aims to offer a platform for scientists studying the cell and molecular biology of these cells in health, disease and development. Such integrated research efforts are considered essential to ultimately decrease morbidity and mortality from respiratory disorders. A special focus of our Group is airway epithelial cells, their secretions, and immunopathological methodology. Besides basic research we have a wide range of research and clinical interests that include asthma, COPD, respiratory infections and general aspects of airways inflammation. We continuously strive to broaden our clinical and scientific horizon and to collaborate with other Groups within the ERS and other organisations. We are active in research, educational and communication activities of the ERS.

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Group 03.03 Mechanisms of Lung Injury and Repair

Chair: Stefan Uhlig
Secretary: Christian Kaehler

The lung injury section of this Assembly brings together members who are interested in the cellular and molecular basis of injury to the lungs and new approaches to treatment for lung injury. Its members are interested in the mechanisms of disease related to acute lung injury (e.g. ARDS), fibrotic reactions, injury created by host-pathogen interactions, drug-induced lung injury and other mechanisms of acute and chronic lung injury, and includes clinicians, clinician/investigators and basic scientists who share these common interests.