Graduate student presents new research at international immunology conference

Killian Brewer presented at the American Association

of Immunologists conference.

Killian Brewer, a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, recently presented new research at the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) Immunology 2025 conference in Honolulu, Hawaii.  

His poster presentation focused on neutrophil hyperresponsiveness that contributes to lung pathology in lab models.  

A rare pediatric primary immunodeficiency disorder known as Hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES) is characterized by recurrent lung infections and persistent inflammation damaging to lung tissue. Using a lab model with a STAT3 mutation common in patients, scientists at USA demonstrated that infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa leads to significant alveolar damage and increased immune cell infiltration.  

The lab models exhibited higher bacterial loads and elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, driven by enhanced neutrophil activation. Importantly, Brewer said, bone marrow-derived neutrophils from the models showed heightened degranulation and NETosis, indicating a hyperresponsive state.  

The results highlight a new pathogenic mechanism involving neutrophil hyperactivation as a key contributor to lung injury and immune dysregulation in AD-HIES. Future studies, Brewer said, will focus on the efficacy of targeting this mechanism as a therapeutic strategy. 

“Presenting at AAI Immunology 2025 was a chance to spotlight rare pediatric immune disorders and share research that could improve care for patients too often overlooked,” Brewer said. “I’m proud to help push this conversation forward.” 

Brewer is the 2025 recipient of the Samuel J. Strada Travel and Enhancement Award. This award is named in honor of Dr. Samuel J. Strada and is designed to support attendance at intensive workshops, conferences, or meetings to enhance the knowledge and expertise of the recipient in their field of study.  

Organized by the American Association of Immunologists, the Immunology 2025 conference brought together leading researchers who discussed the latest from across the field. Founded in 1913, the American Association of Immunologists includes nearly 8,000 scientists in 71 countries on a mission to improve global health and well-being by advancing immunology and elevating public understanding about the immune system.