Allergy and Immunology
Rothenberg CURED Lab

Rothenberg CURED Research Lab

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. For example, the Rothenberg laboratory has found that intestinal eosinophils regulate the production of secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) and regulate intestinal commensal flora.

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, B 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 interleukin 5 (IL-5), the eotaxin subfamily of chemokines, IL-13 and epithelial gene products.

We are investigating the role of eosinophils in disease processes including infections, asthma and gastrointestinal disorders. We are studying the consequences of genetically engineered eosinophil-deficient mice and eosinophil depletion in humans ("human eosinophil knockouts"). Genetic approaches to understanding eosinophil-associated human diseases are a focus area. Why patients develop allergic disorders, focused on genetic and environmental factors and their interactions, are priority research topics. Finally, we are pursuing strategies for diagnostics and patient-reported outcomes (e.g., PEESS v2.0) and targeted therapeutic intervention in allergic diseases with a focus on eosinophil-mediated diseases.

Focus on Epithelial Cells in Immunity

Epithelial cells are the first line of defense against foreign antigens. We are researching the role of epithelial cells as an innate immune organ. Studies focus on stem cell biology, differentiation and repair. Recent findings include the 1) role of anti-proteases in maintaining homeostasis (e.g., Science Translational Medicine 2020) and 2) identification and role of RipIL33, an allergen sensor that triggers IL-33 maturation and release (Nature Immunology 2021).

EGIDExpress

EGIDExpress–Gateway for Data Sharing

Groundbreaking Research

Research effort by Cincinnati Children’s investigators helps enable first new class of Asthma drugs in over a decade

Video Resources

The Rothenberg CURED Research Lab is an active member of research, professional and patient advocacy communities for allergic and eosinophilic conditions. Learn more in our video library.

CEGIR

The Consortium of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Researchers (CEGIR) is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders through innovative research, clinical expertise and education via collaborations between scientists, health care providers, patients, and professional organizations. CEGIR is part of the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN) and has a contact registry. Consider joining today. Visit the CEGIR website.

Contact Us

Marc E. Rothenberg, MD, PhD.

Marc E. Rothenberg, MD, PhD
Division of Allergy and Immunology

Read the Lancet: Gastroenterology and Hepatology In Focus Profile on Marc Rothenberg's career and contributions: Passionately Curious

Phone: 513-803-0257
Email: marc.rothenberg@cchmc.org

Rothenberg Lab Facebook Page

Rothenberg Lab YouTube Channel

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Publications

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Rothenberg is the author of more than 500 publications in basic science and clinical literature. View the publications from the Rothenberg Lab.
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Download the International Innovation’s article interviewing Marc Rothenberg about the research that is taking place in his lab. Read More

Funding Support

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We are grateful for the generous support of several foundations and agencies, such as the Campaign Urging Research for Eosinophilic Diseases (CURED). View the funding support for our lab.
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) Rare Disease Center of Excellence
Cincinnati Children's is proud to be a National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) Rare Disease Center of Excellence, where we are part of an innovative network seeking to expand access, advance care, and promote research for people with rare diseases in the U.S.