Respiratory Triggers and Sensory Irritation: Role of Environmental Pollution in Respiratory Symptoms

To investigate the effects of environmental pollutants on sensory nerves and the subsequent role in the initiation or exacerbation of respiratory symptoms (inflammatory responses/cough/bronchospasm). The contribution of TRP channel activation (starting with those identified by our group and others on airway afferents e.g. TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPV4, TRPM3, TRPM8) in these events will be studied. To investigate these mechanisms, we will be using a range of techniques including in vivo and in vitro electrophysiology, novel ex vivo cell and tissue models, state-of-the-art cellular imaging and animal model systems. Insight into the mechanisms behind environmental influences on such biological process could reveal novel therapeutic strategies, whilst highlighting unwanted features of various products present in the environment.