A proteomic approach to the identification of novel targets for allergy treatment

Eosinophis are involved in parasite immunity and in the pathology of allergic diseases including asthma. Eosinophil recuitment and activation is critical to thier functional activity, the relevant molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In the present proposal, a unique resource of eosinophils, at different stages of recruitment and activation, will be used for detailed proteomic analysis to identify molecules and molecular pathways involved in eosinophil migration and activation. These studies may lead to novel anti-inflammatory strategies and more targeted drug treatments that will generate significant intellectual property and be of enormous benefit to allergy patients worldwide.