Division of Respirology

Paul Forsythe

MSc, PhD

Assistant Professor, Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine

 

Education and Professional Standing

  • BSc, Queen’s University Belfast (Biochemistry), 1993
  • MSc, Queen’s University Belfast (Medical Laboratory Science), 1994
  • PhD, Queen’s University Belfast (Immunopharmacology), 1998
  • Post Doctoral Fellow, Pulmonary Research Group, University of Alberta, 1999
  • Post Doctoral Fellow, Brain-Body Institute, McMaster University, 2003
  • Research Associate, Brain-Body Institute, McMaster University, 2005
  • Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine and the Brain-Body Institute, McMaster University, 2008

Research Interests

Dr Forsythe’s research focus is in understanding the gut-lung immune axis, in particular in identifying the mechanisms of action underlying the ability of certain commensal bacteria to modulate mast cell, dendritic cell and T cell function to promote a regulatory immune response with potential therapeutic benefits in allergy and asthma. In relation to this, Dr Forsythe has developed a research program in the area of inter-kingdom signaling, an emerging field that offers exciting possibilities for novel insights into the interaction between bacteria and eukaryotes. Using the mast cell as a model, the objective is to understand the molecular mechanisms and pathways utilized by quorum sensing systems, until recently thought be involved solely in signaling between bacteria, in modulating the host immune response.  
Dr Forsythe also maintains a strong interest in neuroimmunolgy with a focus on the role of the vagus nerve in regulating immune responses and the potential implications for allergic disease.

Selected Publications

  1. Karimi K, Inman MD, Bienenstock J, Forsythe P.  Lactobacillus reuteri Induced Regulatory T Cells Protect Against an Allergic Airway Response in Mice. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2009;179(3):186-93.
  2. Forsythe P, Inman MD, Bienenstock J. Oral treatment with live Lactobacillus reuteri inhibits the allergic airway response in mice. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2007; 15: 175(6):561-9