C5a was identified to play a crucial role in the effector phase of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA). A novel pathway to modulate C5aR-mediated signaling could be identified at the same time. (Karsten et al, Nat. Med., 2012).

The main purpose of this project is to visualize the extravasation of neutrophils during the effector phase of antibody-transfer-induced EBA under the inhibition of C5aR. This observations will allow us to better quantify and understand the influence of C5aR-mediated signalling and its role in the pathogenesis of EBA.