Research

The Center for Genetic Errors of Immunity (CGEI) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center investigates the biological mechanisms underlying genetic disorders of the immune system. Through basic, clinical, and translational research, we seek to build the scientific foundation for more precise diagnostic methods, preventive strategies—including vaccines, prophylactic treatments, and genetic counseling—and innovative therapies tailored to individual patients.

Our researchers conduct collaborative investigations in the following areas:

Genetics of Immune Disorders

Inborn errors of immunity, previously known as primary immunodeficiencies, are a diverse group of more than 550 genetic disorders. These conditions can increase susceptibility to infection, contribute to cancer risk, or cause excessive immune activity that leads to autoinflammation and autoimmunity. CGEI researchers use advanced genomic sequencing, computational analysis, and functional studies to diagnose known conditions, discover previously unidentified genetic causes of disease, and understand why the same genetic variant may affect people differently. Learn more about CGEI and its research at CUIMC.

Detailed Pathophysiology

Understanding how a genetic variant disrupts immune function is essential to developing an effective treatment. CGEI researchers examine individual variants and their effects on cells, signaling pathways, and immune responses using genomic, genetic, molecular, cellular, immunological, and clinical approaches. These detailed studies help connect a patient’s genetic findings to the biological mechanisms responsible for disease. Explore the Bogunovic Lab’s active research projects.

Novel Therapeutics, Technologies, and Clinical Trials

CGEI researchers use advanced technologies to identify treatments that target the specific molecular pathways disrupted by genetic disease. This work has helped reveal opportunities to repurpose existing medications, including JAK inhibitors, for patients with rare immune disorders. The Center is also advancing new therapeutic strategies, including broad-spectrum antiviral approaches inspired by naturally occurring genetic variations in the immune system. By connecting laboratory discoveries with clinical expertise, CGEI aims to move promising treatments toward the patients who need them. Learn about the development of a broad-spectrum antiviral therapy at Columbia.

Immune Monitoring

Detailed mapping and functional evaluation of the immune system are central to understanding inborn errors of immunity. CGEI works with the Human Immune Monitoring Core at CUIMC, which provides comprehensive multi-omics immune profiling and monitoring at single-cell resolution. Through advanced technologies and specialized expertise, this collaboration supports the detailed analysis of patient immune responses and helps translate research findings into clinically meaningful insights.