Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 26, 2026

Advanced Imaging of Lung Homing Human Lymphocytes in an Experimental In Vivo Model of Allergic Inflammation Based on Light-sheet Microscopy
Published on: April 16, 2019
Inflammation in allergic asthma: initiating events, immunological response and risk factors
1Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. manuelF@qimr.edu.au
Abstract:
Allergic asthma affects 155 million people worldwide. Currently, it is a disease that can be controlled by diverse therapeutic approaches but that cannot be cured. This means that asthma is one of the most expensive diseases for healthcare systems in developed countries. Efficient prevention strategies are therefore greatly needed to reduce both individual morbidity and national economic burdens. This requires a detailed knowledge of the immunological and physiological mechanisms involved in asthma. This review synthesizes current understanding about the immunobiology of IgE-mediated asthma. It discusses the initiating events, the main immunological and inflammatory processes, and addresses the importance of risk factors in the development and maintenance of allergic diseases. Finally, it integrates these concepts in a theoretical causal model for atopic asthma.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Allergic Reactions
Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
