Histamine <sub>H4</sub> Receptor Research

The recently identified histamine H4 receptor (H4R) has attracted much interest because of its function and potential therapeutic exploitation. Principally expressed on haematopoietic cells, it plays a significant role in immune responses and inflammatory processes. The Action will create a network of European experts to foster a multidisciplinary approach to H4R research, and to enhance basic understanding and the therapeutic potential of this new drug target. Sub objectives are a) evaluation and elucidation of critical issues pertaining to H4R function, pharmacological profile and therapeutic implementation of its ligands, b) promotion of the deployment of new instrumentation and reliable experimental models, c) development of a forum for free exchange of new concepts and training of young European scientists. The Action will originally include scientists with competences ranging from chemical synthesis to clinical pharmacology. More than 20 teams will constitute 4 interdisciplinary Working Groups: methodological approaches; basic research on physiological and pathophysiological importance; structure-activity and preclinical investigations on properties of new selective ligands; therapeutic potential of H4R and new compounds. The dissemination plan includes a dedicated website, meetings, workshops, Short-Term Scientific Missions, an open forum and a best practice template.