Neural signals shaping specific lung immune cells to allergic airway disease
Official title: Neuronally-driven accumulation of glycolytic MafB+MHCIIhi IMs drive airway allergy
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11334290 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A Johns Hopkins-led study looks at a special type of lung macrophage that, when guided by vagus nerve signals, promotes allergy-related inflammation in the airways.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 21, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $596,607 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI170709-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11334290 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with allergic airway diseases (e.g., allergic rhinitis, asthma) may participate in future translational steps or related studies.
✕Less likely to help
People without allergic airway conditions are unlikely to benefit from this specific mechanism-focused research.
What this research studies
This project explores how nerve signals from the vagal system influence immune cells in the airway during allergic reactions. It identifies MafB+CD11c+MHCIIhi interstitial macrophages as key drivers of the Th2 allergy response, beyond traditional dendritic cells. By using chemogenetic techniques, the researchers aim to show that lung innervation can control immune cell behavior during allergen exposure like house dust mite. Findings could shift focus toward neural-immune interactions as targets for treating allergic airway disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new ways to prevent or reduce airway allergy by targeting neuro-immune pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Early data suggests that similar macrophage populations contribute to allergic responses, but the neural control of these cells is a novel angle.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lajoie, Stephane — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Lajoie, Stephane
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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.