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Virus-induced asthma attacks.

David B Jacoby1

  • 1Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, 97239, USA. jacobyd@ohsu.edu

Journal of Aerosol Medicine : the Official Journal of the International Society for Aerosols in Medicine
|August 6, 2004
PubMed
Summary

Viral infections trigger asthma attacks by impairing M2 muscarinic receptors on airway nerves. While inflammation has negative impacts, eosinophils also offer antiviral protection, highlighting a dual role in asthma exacerbations.

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Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pulmonology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Viral infections are a primary cause of asthma attacks in all age groups.
  • Impaired M2 muscarinic receptors on airway parasympathetic nerves potentiate bronchoconstriction.
  • Both viral infections and allergic inflammation contribute to M2 receptor dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanisms by which viral infections and allergic responses affect M2 muscarinic receptor function in airways.
  • To explore the dual role of eosinophils in viral infections and asthma exacerbations.

Main Methods:

  • Review of mechanisms involving M2 receptor gene expression and function.
  • Analysis of eosinophil recruitment and activation in airway nerves.
  • Examination of major basic protein's effect on M2 receptors.

Main Results:

  • Interferon production during viral infections can downregulate M2 receptor gene expression, an effect reversible by steroids.
  • Eosinophils, recruited to airway nerves in allergic conditions, release major basic protein, inhibiting M2 receptor function.
  • Eosinophils possess significant antiviral capabilities, suggesting a beneficial role.

Conclusions:

  • The inflammatory response to viral infections in asthma presents a complex interplay of detrimental and beneficial effects.
  • M2 receptor dysfunction, driven by viral and allergic factors, contributes to asthma exacerbations.
  • Eosinophils play a multifaceted role, exacerbating bronchoconstriction while simultaneously combating viral infections.

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