Caroline Sokol, MD, PhD

Research Project:
Sensory Neuronal Control of CD4+ Tissue-resident Memory in Allergic Inflammation

Grant Awarded:

American Lung Association/AAAAI Allergic Respiratory Diseases Research Award

Research Topics:

basic biologic mechanisms
immunology immunotherapy
occupational health

Research Diseases:

allergy
asthma
occupational lung disease

Asthma affects millions of people and often flares when allergen-specific immune cells in the lung are re-exposed to their trigger and rapidly respond, igniting inflammation. How are these cells maintained in the lung and activated so quickly? That answer is not yet known. This project builds on emerging evidence that sensory nerves in the airways–best known for detecting irritants–can influence allergic immunity. The study asks whether these nerves also help sustain and reactivate allergen-specific immune cells. Our preliminary data show that allergen-stimulated nerves release signals that keep these cells in place and license them to respond, potentially triggering an asthma attack. By defining how nerves and immune cells communicate in the lung, this work aims to uncover new ways to interrupt the cycle of inflammation, which drives asthma exacerbations, and to identify therapies that suppress allergic memory itself, rather than only treating symptoms after they appear.

Co-Funded American Lung Association & Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Page last updated: September 28, 2026

Caroline Sokol, MD, PhD

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