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Nerve growth factor levels and localisation in human asthmatic bronchi
C Olgart Höglund1, F de Blay, J P Oster
1caroline.olgart@fyfa.ki.se
The European Respiratory Journal
|November 27, 2002
Summary
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is elevated in the airways of asthma patients, originating from both structural and inflammatory cells. This study confirms local NGF production in asthmatic airways, highlighting its role in airway inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Nerve growth factor (NGF) is implicated in inflammation.
- Elevated serum NGF levels are observed in asthmatics.
- Local NGF levels and sources in asthmatic airways remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify NGF levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of asthmatics versus controls.
- To identify the cellular sources of NGF in human bronchial tissue.
- To count NGF-expressing inflammatory cells in asthmatic bronchial submucosa.
Main Methods:
- Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and bronchial biopsies from 7 asthmatics and 7 controls.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for BALF NGF quantification.
- Immunohistochemistry for NGF localization in bronchial biopsies.
Main Results:
- Asthmatics showed significantly higher NGF levels in BALF.
- NGF immunoreactivity was intense in bronchial epithelium, smooth muscle, and inflammatory cells.
- Asthmatics had more NGF-immunopositive infiltrating cells in bronchial submucosa.
Conclusions:
- Nerve growth factor is locally produced in human airways.
- NGF production is increased in asthmatic airways.
- Both structural and inflammatory cells contribute to elevated NGF in asthma.