The role of pro resolving mediators during resolution of allergic airway inflammation

• Applicant: Dr. Martin Christmann
• Subject Area: Pneumology, Thoracic Surgery ; Veterinary Medical Science
• Term: from 2013 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 230476349

Introduction: A new group of local mediators (resolvins, protectins, lipoxins) play a crucial role in the resolution of systemic and / or chronic airway inflammation. These mediators are generated out of unsaturated fatty acids, as Eicosapentaen- and Docosapentaen-acid (EPA and DHA) and are called pro-resolving mediators. The recently detected protectin D1 has strong anti-inflammatory and immunmodulatory effects on neutrophils and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Lipoxine A4 showed effects on the allergic inflammation by inhibiting neutrophil and eosinophil granulocytes, dendritic cells, NK-cells and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Aim of the project: Aim of the project, described in the application, is to analyse the exact role of the pro-resolving mediators in an allergic airway inflammation model. Mice will first be sensitized to house dust must and then after a bronchial allergen challenge the extent and the resolution of the allergic airway inflammation will be characterized. Hereby, the project focuses on the time course from maximal inflammation to resolution and the role of the pro resolving mediators. Special interest is adressed to the regulation of these mediators.During the project at the laboratory of Prof. Levy at Harvard Medical School / Boston / USA, special knowledge in the field of allergic airway inflammation will be aquired. The workgroup of Prof. Levy is the leading institute in the field of these lipid mediators.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor Dr. Bruce Levy