Understanding how mast cells function in allergic diseases

Defining Heterogeneous Human Mast Cell Effector Function

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11137583

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called mast cells work in allergies like asthma and food allergies, and it hopes to find better ways to treat these conditions by understanding how these cells act in different parts of the body; patients may be asked to help by giving blood samples for the research.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11137583 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mast cells in various allergic conditions, such as asthma and food allergies. It focuses on how these cells behave differently in various tissues and how their unique characteristics can influence inflammation and disease progression. By developing a new cell culture system, researchers aim to study the specific functions of different types of mast cells, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of related diseases. Patients may be involved in providing blood samples to help with this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with asthma, food allergies, or related allergic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without allergic conditions or those not affected by asthma or food allergies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from asthma and food allergies by targeting specific mast cell functions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding mast cell functions, but this approach is novel in its focus on specific mast cell types and their roles in disease.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.