Rothenberg Research Lab
Comprehensive Research on Mechanisms of Allergic Responses
The Rothenberg laboratory is focused on elucidating the mechanisms of allergic responses, especially in mucosal tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract and lung. The goal of the research is to identify mechanisms of allergic inflammation with the aim of developing and testing novel pharmaceutical targets for the treatment and cure of patients with a variety of allergic diseases, especially eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGID) [e.g. eosinophilic esophagitis (EE or EoE)], hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES), asthma and food allergies. The laboratory has identified and biologically characterized several critical pathways that regulate allergic responses. Research spans all aspects of basic studies, with particular emphasis on modern genetic approaches, translational research employing novel in vivo and ex vivo systems that the Rothenberg Laboratory has built, and clinical studies designed to test proof-of-concept theories directly in humans.
Focus on Eosinophils: Homeostasis and Disease
Eosinophils have been considered end-stage cells involved in host protection against parasites. However, numerous lines of evidence have now changed this perspective by showing that eosinophils are pleiotropic multifunctional leukocytes involved in initiation and propagation of diverse inflammatory responses, as well as modulators of innate and adaptive immunity.
We are examining new views on the role of eosinophils in homeostatic function, including developmental biology and innate and adaptive immunity (as well as interaction with mast cells and T cells). We are studying the molecular steps involved in eosinophil development and trafficking, with special attention to the important role of eosinophil selective cytokines such as IL-5 and the eotaxin subfamily of chemokines.
We are investigating the role of eosinophils in disease processes including infections, asthma and gastrointestinal disorders. We are studying the consequences of genetically engineering eosinophil-deficient mice. Genetic approaches to understanding eosinophil-associated human diseases are a focus area. Finally, we are pursuing strategies for targeted therapeutic intervention in eosinophil-mediated diseases.
Innovators Changing the Outcome
For more information about my research perspective, view the first segment (0-1:42) of the “Innovators Changing the Outcome” video.
Educational Opportunities
PhD or MD / PhD: Students interested in PhD training should contact Marc E. Rothenberg, MD, PhD and apply to the graduate programs in Molecular and Developmental Biology, Immunobiology and/or Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology.
Postdoctoral Fellowships: Graduates interested in postdoctoral training should contact Marc E. Rothenberg, MD, PhD and send their resumes (including publications).
MD: Clinical fellow applicants should contact Marc E. Rothenberg, MD, PhD and apply to the Allergy / Immunology Fellowship Training Program.
Publications
Marc E. Rothenberg, MD, PhD is the author of more than 250 papers in basic science and clinical literature. View representative publications.
