Understanding how mast cells and prostaglandin E2 affect asthma and airway inflammation
Official title: Prostaglandin E2-Dependent Control of a Mast Cell IL-33/ST2 Pathway in Asthma
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11035232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your body, called mast cells, can help control asthma-related inflammation caused by a substance called IL-33, and it’s exploring how a molecule called PGE2 can change these cells from causing inflammation to helping reduce it, with the goal of finding new ways to treat asthma and similar breathing issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $859,874 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175149-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with asthma or related respiratory conditions, particularly those experiencing type 2 inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-allergic asthma or those not affected by type 2 inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mast cells in controlling airway inflammation caused by IL-33, a key cytokine in asthma. It explores how levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) influence mast cells' behavior, shifting them from promoting inflammation to having an anti-inflammatory effect. The study aims to identify the specific mast cell types involved and the mechanisms by which PGE2 regulates certain receptors that interact with IL-33. By conducting experiments both in vitro and in vivo, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic strategies for asthma and related respiratory conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage asthma and reduce airway inflammation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mast cells in asthma, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyce, Joshua a — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Boyce, Joshua a
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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.