Jun Nagai, PhD

Platelets can play major roles in inflammatory responses, particularly in inflammation that underlies prevalent respiratory diseases such as asthma. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that play a major role in inflammatory responses, but little is understood about the potential role of platelets in the regulation of mast cell function. In this study, we will investigate whether platelets directly promote mast cell activation, what the mechanisms are that underlie this process, and how this process promotes lung allergic information. Our findings will help develop new therapeutic strategies that target this process and validate useful allergic/inflammatory diagnostic biomarkers.

Update:

This project focuses on studying how mast cells (MCs) and platelets interact in allergic inflammation, which is important in conditions like severe asthma and Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD). In year one, we found a lipid mediator called LTC4, which is mainly produced by mast cells, plays a significant role in activating platelets. This activation is facilitated by an enzyme called LTC4 synthase (LTC4S), which is associated with mast cells. We used mouse models to demonstrate the clinical relevance of this finding. We will next use mouse models to see how disrupting these interactions affect allergic inflammation. This research aims to deepen our understanding of these processes and potentially lead to new treatments for allergic diseases.