Calming overactive mast cells by targeting Siglec-6
Modulation and exploitation of Siglec-6 function to broadly impede mast cell activation
Researchers are developing ways to turn down harmful mast cell reactions by targeting a protein called Siglec-6 for people with allergic and mast cell-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11249252 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on a protein called Siglec-6 that is found mainly on human mast cells and can reduce their activation when engaged. The team will use human mast cells, molecular experiments, and preclinical models to see how activating Siglec-6 blocks signals that trigger allergic responses. They will explore antibodies or other molecules that bind Siglec-6 to prevent mast cells from releasing the chemicals that cause symptoms. The goal is to create a broadly applicable approach to prevent dangerous mast cell-driven reactions rather than only treating symptoms after they occur.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with mast cell-driven conditions such as recurrent anaphylaxis, chronic spontaneous urticaria, systemic mastocytosis, or severe pseudoallergic drug reactions would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People whose symptoms are not caused by mast cells or whose conditions are driven by other immune pathways would be unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that prevent or reduce severe allergic and mast cell-driven reactions by stopping mast cell activation at its source.
How similar studies have performed: Related strategies targeting other Siglec family receptors have shown promise in early studies, but specifically targeting Siglec-6 is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'sullivan, Jeremy a — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: O'sullivan, Jeremy a
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.