In research area B, we will investigate the role of the glycocalyx on the airway and alveolar surfaces, build 2D and 3D in vitro models of mucus producing epithelia cells, as well as ex vivo and in vivo models for pathogen infections. A dedicated project will investigate the role of mucus degradation by viruses that is essential for the understanding of viral infections at biointerfaces. The understanding of the intestinal mucus barrier is yet another part where model systems are urgently needed to study the interaction between mucus and the microbiota in the microenvironment of the intestinal surface. The development and use of these model systems is
well connected to areas A, C and the analytical and model platforms of Z01 and Z02.

• Project B01| Kuebler/Ochs: The epithelial glycocalyx at the blood-gas barrier of the lung
• Project B02| Witzenrath/Seeberger: Functional role of the alveolar epithelial glycocalyx in pulmonary defense and inflammation
• Project B03| Haag/Block: Synthesis, biophysical characterization and virus penetration of mucus-inspired dynamic hydrogels
• Project B04| Siegmund/Weinhart: Hydrogel properties on intestinal surfaces in health and disease
• Project B05| Fulde/Forslund: The interplay of microbiota with mucus