Edward Brooks

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Edward Brooks
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Research Interests

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology

A major focus of my laboratory is the interaction of environmental agents with inflammatory reactions in respiratory mucosa as it pertains to allergy and asthma. We have ongoing investigations in three areas 1) mechanisms of cedar pollen-induced allergic disease, 2) the effects of air pollution on basophil and mast cell function, and 3) human epidemiological studies of the interaction of air pollutants with asthma and lit effects on lung function in normal athletes.

We have identified non-IgE dependent mechanisms of pollen-induced mast cell and basophil degranulation. Pollen from cedar trees induces mast cell degranulation and IL4 production through the generation of reactive oxygen species. The environmental pollutants, aldehydes and SO2 induce mast degranulation and cytokine production. Sulfite induces activation of the NADPH oxidase complex in mast cells. Aldehydes (acetaldehyde, formaldehyde and acrolein) activate mast cells through ROS generating pathways that result in apoptosis.

We are also conducting epidemiological studies of the impact of air pollutants on asthma in children and the lung function of athletes. In two recent studies conducted in collaboration with Dr. Sharon Petronella, we have demonstrated increased numbers of emergency room visits for children with asthma as a result of high levels of oxidant pollutants (ozone and NOx) and the effects of fine particulates (PM 2.5) on the lung function of lifeguards on Galveston beaches. We are examining polymorphisms of glutathione-S transferase (GST) genes in this cohort to identify potential susceptibility genes.

A second major area of interest involves the development of thymic organioids within 3D tissue scaffolds. Using cultured thymic stroma and hematopoetic stem cells, we are conducting studies in collaboration with the Biomedical Engineering Department to develop artificial thymus. In particular, we are focusing on generating adequate diversity in the T-cell repertoire and normal intrathymic selection mechanisms. The ex vivo organoids will be used to generate T-cells directed against pathogens important for vaccine development.