Martin E. Dorf

Martin E. Dorf is a prominent immunologist at Harvard University, where he leads a research program focused on fundamental mechanisms of immune system function. He earned his doctoral degree in immunology before establishing his independent research career. Professor Dorf's laboratory investigates the intricate interactions between T-cells and B-cells, with particular emphasis on how these cells coordinate immune responses through antibody production and cellular signaling. His work spans both basic immunological principles and applied research involving monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. A significant portion of his recent research explores the interface between immunology and virology, examining how immune cells detect and respond to viral infections. This includes groundbreaking studies on the cGAS-STING DNA sensing pathway, where his team discovered that leaked mitochondrial protein C1QBP can inhibit cGAS activation, revealing novel regulatory mechanisms in innate immunity. His laboratory also investigates the role of selective autophagy in antiviral defense, as demonstrated in recent publications on rabies virus and influenza virus. With an h-index of 61 and over 280 publications, Professor Dorf has made substantial contributions to understanding immune cell function, particularly in the context of host-pathogen interactions. His research continues to advance knowledge of how immune systems maintain balance between effective pathogen clearance and prevention of autoimmune pathology.