Jin-Ah Park, PhD

Research Project:
Hic-5-dependent Epithelial Mechanotransduction and Extracellular Vesicle Release in Asthma

Grant Awarded:

Innovation Award

Research Topics:

basic biologic mechanisms
biomarkers
computational biology
immunology immunotherapy
proteomics
public health

Research Disease:

asthma

Globally, asthma affects approximately 350 million people and causes approximately 1,000 deaths daily. Current therapeutics targeting inflammation help patients manage disease, but about 25% of patients do not respond to them. Non-responders often experience recurrent tightening of their airways (bronchoconstriction), which can contribute to death. During bronchoconstriction, the airway narrows and the cells lining the airway (airway epithelial cells) are mechanically deformed and activate mechanical, non-immune signaling pathways. When these mechanical signaling pathways are activated, airway epithelial cells release nano-sized extracellular vesicles that may reinforce a vicious cycle of inflammation and bronchoconstriction. This study therefore focuses on pathologic features of patients who do not respond and undergo frequent bronchoconstriction. We aim to identify the mechanisms by which these mechanically activated non-immune pathways establish a mechano-immune axis that may be critical in patients who do not respond to current anti-inflammatory therapies and are prone to recurrent bronchoconstriction.

Page last updated: September 23, 2026

Jin-Ah Park, PhD

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