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Physiology Seminar
(Conferences / Seminars / Lectures)
Dept. of Physiology Research Seminar: Dr. Hariharan Subramanian - "Role of Adapter Molecules in Regulating Mast Cell Functions"
Allergic diseases are among the major causes of illness and disability for all ages. These diseases are caused by an overzealous immune response to allergens in which immunoglobulin E (IgE) and mast cells play critical roles. Thus, aggregation of high affinity IgE receptor (FceRI) on mast cells by allergen results in rapid release of mast cells granules (degranulation) and the generation of inflammatory mediators which are responsible for the manifestations of allergic diseases. Previous reports have demonstrated that activation of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) exacerbated FceRI-induced responses in mast cells. Agonist-induced phosphorylation of GPCRs by GPCR kinases (GRKs) leads to the recruitment of a family of adapter molecules called β-arrestins, which promotes desensitization and internalization of the receptor. My research focuses on the role of these adapter molecules in regulating GPCR-induced mast cell functions. In addition, I have made the novel observation that GRKs and β-arrestins modulate FceRI-induced signaling in mast cells. Thus, understanding these previously unappreciated mechanisms of mast cell activation may lead to the development of novel approaches for the treatment of asthma and allergic diseases. more information...
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884-5034
