We study how the mast cell, a critical cell involved in many inflammatory conditions, regulates disease.
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Histamine is an important mediator produced by mast cells and we are investigating how the release of histamine, as well as histamine receptors that are expressed on immune cells, influence inflammation.
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Food allergy is a life-threatening and life-affecting condition whereby the ability to tolerate allergens in food has been lost. The response in food allergy, termed “anaphylaxis” involves mast cells. We are working on understanding food allergy using both animal models and patient samples. We are investigating the immunological, environmental and pathogenic mechanisms behind this, as well as developing novel nanotechnology approaches to treat and diagnose food allergy.
Mast Cell Granules and degranulation
Courtesy of Adam
Peanut-containing nanoparticles
Courtesy of Karen
