My research interests focus on the regulation of immunity within the skin. These studies primarily utilize the autoimmune blistering disease Bullous pemphigoid (BP) as a model of human autoimmunity. BP is mediated by autoantibodies specific for proteins, BP180 or type XVII collagen, involved in anchoring the epidermal keratinocytes to the underlying dermis. These BP180-specific autoantibodies are thought to mediate blister formation by propagating inflammation within the skin and activating a variety of immune cells that then release proteases, which lead to tissue destruction. A main focus of this work, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Janet Fairley, is to unravel the unique contribution of IgE-class autoantibodies in the development and progression of BP lesions. Other studies focus on evaluating the direct effects of antibodies on keratinocyte structure and function. These studies will help us understand the role of keratinocytes in the regulation of immunity and inflammation within the skin. Finally, we have begun to examine the regulatory components of the skin immune system to better understand how BP develops.