Despite considerable remaining gaps in our knowledge, we are steadily increasing our understanding of the body's immune system. Basic Immunology Continued investment in basic immunology research is a fundamental strategy to help ensure future progress in vaccine development, as well as in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of allergic and immunologic diseases.
Mast cells are responsible for many of the symptoms of allergy.
These cells release powerful chemicals in response to allergens. Maintain a pipeline of fundamental discoveries of immune regulation for translation into practical applications for vaccines and a broad range of immune-mediated diseases. Capitalize on immunologic principles to stimulate residual immune function in immunosuppressed individuals. Integrate immune research with other research disciplines, such as cellular and molecular biology, tumor biology, neurology, genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics. This ability to maintain a tolerant state will be equally important for preventing immune unresponsiveness to vaccines against tumors and infectious diseases.