The overarching focus of Dr. Garza's research is to understand the interactions between T cells and dendritic cells or macrophages in the induction and maintenance of T cell-mediated immunity. She also has interest in how these interactions are affected by factors such as airborne particulates or adipokines. Her work focuses on three areas: 1) the effects of nanocarbon particulates on macrophage function in the lungs; 2) the role of leptin on dendritic cells and what role this plays in the induction of productive T cell immunity in obese individuals; and 3) the potential inhibition of chemotherapy by leptin in obese patients.