Dynamical transitions in inflammatory response

Our immune systems have the capacity to rapidly amplify in response to pathogenic challenges, but yet return to equilibrium. However, sometimes a dangerous hyper-inflammatory `cytokine storm' response occurs. It remains unknown whether these over-responses are simply larger in magnitude than appropriate systemic response, or whether there are tipping points in the underlying dynamics. I will discuss theoretical work to understand the types of transitions accessible to such a system. I will also discuss experimental tests of the dynamics of these responses in the zebrafish, a model biological system that gives access to whole-organism response.