About this Research Topic
The function of GATA1 in the production and development of basophils has been demonstrated, notwithstanding specific-lineage discrimination. Although they share certain traits with mast cells, they play a distinct function in chronic allergy, and they've been referred to as effectors in the IgE-mediated immune response. Basophils degranulate and produce effector mediators when activated, but their biological activities and kinetics of effector mediators in allergies remain unknown. Research focusing on understanding basophils' role in asthma/allergic disease is still ongoing.
Unlike mast cells, basophils monitor systemic circulation and reach inflammatory targeted sites when required. Basophils have been documented for supporting humoral mediated immunity in either a Th2 dependent or independent manner in allergic conditions. Recent studies have demonstrated novel tryptases (at least in mice mMCP-11) against IgE mediated chronic allergic inflammation. Last decade, significant efforts were made to understand the functional characteristics of basophils in association with other leukocytes, e.g., basophils are not suppressed by the regulatory T cells, and instead they get stimulatory signals. Such studies demonstrate the immunomodulatory potential of basophils. Yet, their relevance in allergic diseases requires further exploration.
We welcome the submission of Original Research articles, Brief Reports, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, and opinions, covering the following recent developments on basophils.
1. IL-5, GM-CSF, IL-3 mediated effector function of mature basophils are known. Are there any novel factors producing such biological effects in allergic disease?
2. Major transcription factors that regulate the basophil mediators in allergic disease.
3. Receptors on the surface of basophils or in their granules that, in conjunction with other leukocytes, play a critical role in allergies.
4. Direct and indirect interactions between basophils and allergens: observations from human and animal models.
5. Effect of anaphylatoxins on basophil-induced allergy.
6. Developments in basophil-mediated humoral immune responses against previously exposed allergens.
7. The human immuno-inflammatory network in basophil-mediated allergy, focusing on lungs and skin.
8. Defined molecular pathways involved in the physiology or pathology, including activator or inhibitor induced mediator release.
9. Basophils or basophil associated markers as predictors, prognostics or biomarkers for allergy.
10. Therapeutic avenues that target basophils or basophil mediated immune responses against allergic diseases.
Conflict of interest declaration for Dr. Masao Yamaguchi: Novartis and AstraZeneca lecture fees within the range of $5,000-10,000; Sanofi and GSK lecture fees below $5,000.
Keywords: basophil characterization, basophil granules, cytokines, chemokines, proteases, transcription factors
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