Abstract illustration of mast cells releasing mediators, representing neuroimmune signaling and the skin’s response to stress and sensory input.

When the Body Over-Reads the World: Mast Cells, Sensory Intelligence, and Emotional Skin

Mast cells are often introduced in medical training as the foot soldiers of classic allergy: histamine-filled, quick to degranulate, and responsible for hives, flushing, and the familiar arc of allergic reactivity. But the last decade of research has recast them into something more complex—and far more interesting. Mast cells are increasingly understood as neuroimmune interface cells: immune cells that both respond to nearby nerves and…

Beauty2Wellness: Mitigating Barriers and Building Bridges

Beauty2Wellness: Mitigating Barriers and Building Bridges Research Abstract Beauty animates much of our lives: we make aesthetic decisions constantly, based on how we want to appear, who we wish to spend time with, etc. But while we know something about the biology and psychological effects of facial beauty, we know virtually nothing about beauty’s relationship to wellness. This two-part research project will be the first to…