AREA OF EXPERTISE
Asthma, Allergies, Air Pollution, Virus Infections (lung), Genetics.
RESEARCH AIMS
Asthma and allergy are clearly associated but are not synonymous with each other. We have discovered that a wide range of environmental factors can play a key part in the cause and worsening of asthma. An important area of Professor Holgate’s research is to understand how influential these environmental factors are and, in the case of air pollution, to advise the Government accordingly. These factors include:
- Air pollutants e.g: ozone, particles
- Diet
- Allergens such as: house dust mite allergens
- Viruses e.g: the common cold viruses
Another important component of asthma is hereditability. During the past decade Professor Holgate headed the research, which led to the discovery of ADAM33 – number one of a number of asthma genes. A major focus of his work now is to understand how this gene affects the causes and worsening of asthma.
MEDIA INTEREST
Professor Holgate is one of the top specialists in his field, both nationally and internationally. His many leading appointments, including that of Government advisor, underline his level of expertise. He is regularly interviewed by the local and national press regarding most aspects of asthma and allergies.
* Immunopharmacology is the study of the affects of drugs on the immune system.
Contact: RCMB, mailpoint 810, Level D, Centre Block, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD.
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