Understanding Mast Cells and Food Allergies
Mast cell regulation of Th2 induction and tolerance breakdown in food allergy
This research aims to understand how certain immune cells, called mast cells, contribute to the development and persistence of food allergies, especially in children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991322 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Food allergies are a growing health concern with limited treatment options, so we need to find out what causes and maintains these allergic reactions. Our team has discovered that mast cells, which are known for causing immediate allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, also act as sensors for food allergens and help trigger the immune responses that lead to allergies. We are exploring how these mast cells boost specific immune cells and whether protective antibodies can turn off this allergic pathway. The goal is to uncover the exact steps involved so we can develop new, targeted treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is designed to benefit individuals with food allergies, particularly children aged 0-11 years, by improving our understanding of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients without food allergies or those whose allergies are not driven by the immune mechanisms being studied may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce severe allergic reactions to foods by targeting the specific immune pathways involved.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings from this team have shown that mast cells play a critical role in sensing food allergens, and this project builds upon those discoveries to answer remaining questions.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oettgen, Hans C — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Oettgen, Hans C
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.