My research laboratory a long standing interest in the molecular mechanisms of allergic inflammation, with a specific emphasis on dysregulated Th2 cytokine gene expression. These cytokines, which include interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, are centrally involved in asthma, and we discovered new molecules…
more and pathways that regulate Th2 cytokine gene transcription in T cells. More recently, we have been exploring how environmental exposures are sensed by the lung's innate immune system, generating signals that influence adaptive, T cell-dependent immunity. These studies are aimed at identifying pathways and mechanisms of cross-talk between airway epithelial cells and respiratory tract dendritic cells, two key cell types in respiratory mucosal immunology. An active area of research involves studying the role of lysophospholipids and their receptors in these processes. Our research employs in vitro and mouse models, and also draws from a registry of well-characterized human asthmatic subjects, with the goal of conducting high-impact, translational studies that will impact the diagnosis and management of asthma.
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