Using fluorescent micro(nano)scopy to understand how biophysical cues fine-tune mast cell signaling
Active Project Grant Awarded Last action
- Award ID
- F31AI194518
- Recipient
-
University Of New Mexico UEI G389MFAYJNG9
- Awarding agency
-
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services
- Obligated
- $78,892
Award facts
- Assistance listing
- 93.855 Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research
- Completion date 0% complete
- Originally
- Place of performance
- Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
Award details come from USAspending.gov.
Description
- Abstract
- The activation and regulation of mast cell signaling through the high-affinity IGE receptor (fcεri) is a critical aspect of allergic responses. Upon crosslinking by multivalent antigens, fcεri initiates signaling cascades that result in mast cell degranulation and cytokine release, driving allergic inflammation. While the biochemical mechanisms of fcεri activation are well understood, significant gaps remain in understanding how biophysical factors can modulate mast cell responses. My F31 research will address the central hypothesis that the strength and specificity of mast cell responses are fine-tuned by biophysical cues that modulate fcεri signaling. Specifically, i propose that factors such as antigen properties, tissue stiffness, and mechanotransduction serve as critical signals to modulate fcεri activation dynamics, ultimately shaping the mast cell's response. To address my hypothesis, i will: 1) define how antigen structure modulates fcεri aggregation and downstream signaling using cashew-derived allergens, 2) determine how integrin-fcεri crosstalk regulates mast cell activation, and 3) evaluate the roles of receptor packing and mechanotransduction in fcεri-mediated signaling at the mast cell synapse. A combination of cutting-edge techniques will be used, including super-resolution imaging, DNA origami nanosheets, tension gauge tethers, along with natural allergens and monte carlo simulations, to uncover how mast cells decide the specificity and strength of their response. The outcomes will advance our understanding of mast cell activation, inform innovative therapeutic strategies for allergic diseases, and contribute to our fundamental knowledge of immune receptor signaling. Through the training plan, i will build expertise in immunobiology, cell signaling, mechanotransduction, advanced cellular imaging, biophysical methods, and structural modeling. The F31 process will give me the research experience and professional skills needed to build an independent research career focusing on understanding immune cell signaling.
Transactions
| Action | Obligated | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Amendment | $39,446 | |
| Amendment | $0 | |
| Original award | $39,446 |
Quick answers
Who received award F31AI194518?
F31AI194518 was awarded to University Of New Mexico by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (National Institutes of Health) on November 11, 2026.
How much is award F31AI194518 worth?
$78,892 has been obligated on F31AI194518.
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