Compare and contrast effects of allergen exposure via skin and airway epithelial barriers on exosome production and subsequent immune responses

Type I hypersensitivities, or allergic immune responses, are defined by the induction of antigen-specific Th2 cells and IgE antibody production, involving activation of the adaptive arm of the immune system during allergen exposure. Epithelial cells are one of the first lines of defence against allergen contact and epithelial cell-allergen interactions have been identified as one of the first key events in the adverse outcome pathway for allergic sensitisation and a key area of focus for future research. This PhD will examine the role of skin and airway epithelial surfaces in influencing the immune outcome after exposure to different allergens.