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Pulmonary Inflammation, Asthma and Allergic Diseases

Allergic diseases are increasing in frequency and represent a significant health concern in the United States–affecting approximately one in five Americans today. Atopic dermatitis, often referred to as allergic skin inflammation or eczema, is frequently the first step on the atopic march, a series of allergic responses localized to the nares (allergic rhinitis), esophagus (eosinophilic esophagitis), intestinal tract (food allergy) and the airways (allergic asthma). The severity of these diseases can vary from mild annoyances to life-threatening illness.

The Wells Center investigators studying pulmonary inflammation, asthma and allergic diseases understand the initiation, pathogenesis and progression of these allergic diseases in the hopes of identifying better ways to treat or prevent allergic symptoms. Studies explore many areas, including the regulation of genes important for the development of T cells involved in allergic inflammation, lung development/ function and how changes contribute to lung reactivity. Research involves animal models of developmental cardiopulmonary defects, allergic inflammation and viral infection as well as patient studies of infants and children with atopic dermatitis and developing airway disease.

Meet the Pulmonary Inflammation, Asthma and Allergic Diseases group

Featured Research

Inhibitor Identified

Peanut allergy is a growing problem in the United States—especially among children. A study from researchers at IU and the University of Notre Dame developed reagents that inhibit allergic responses to peanuts. The study may lead to novel treatments that prevent life-threatening allergic responses to peanuts.

Environmental Factors

Why are allergies on the rise? Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of allergies. Studies from the pulmonary inflammation, asthma, and allergic disease research group have uncovered some common household items that may increase sensitization to allergens.

Food Allergies

The number of diagnosed food allergies in children has steadily increased over the past several decades, with approximately two children with food allergies in each classroom. IU experts said that there are a few things every parent should know about food allergies.

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Areas of Expertise

Researchers in the Pulmonary Inflammation, Asthma and Allergy group are experts in lung development and function and allergic disease.

Active Research

Learn more about the research laboratories of each principal investigator within the Pulmonary Inflammation, Asthma and Allergy group.

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about allergic diseases and the atopic march.

4 Principal Investigators
3 million annually in research funds
12 Trainees