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Interleukin-10 gene expression in acute virus-induced asthma
Terry V Grissell1, Heather Powell, Darren R Shafren
1School of Medical Practice and Population Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.
Summary
Respiratory virus infections trigger asthma exacerbations with increased IL-10 gene expression, potentially explaining reduced eosinophils. This neutrophilia is linked to RANTES and MIP-1alpha chemokine expression.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Virus-induced asthma exhibits distinct neutrophil influx and eosinophil degranulation compared to allergen-induced asthma.
- Understanding the immunopathogenesis of virus-triggered asthma exacerbations is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare induced sputum cytokine responses in severe asthma exacerbations with respiratory virus infection against stable asthma, healthy controls, and virus-infected nonasthmatic individuals.
- To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-induced asthma exacerbations.
Main Methods:
- Respiratory virus infection diagnosed via sputum cell culture and PCR.
- Induced sputum cellular profiles and cytokine gene expression analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR.
- Lung function and atopy tests performed.
Main Results:
- Respiratory viruses detected in 78% of acute asthma subjects, predominantly rhinovirus.
- Increased RANTES and macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1alpha) mRNA in virus-infected subjects (asthmatic and nonasthmatic).
- Significantly elevated IL-10 mRNA in acute asthma exacerbations, decreasing upon recovery.
Conclusions:
- Asthma exacerbations from viral infections show increased IL-10 gene expression, potentially suppressing eosinophil influx.
- Airway neutrophilia in virus-induced asthma is associated with RANTES and MIP-1alpha chemokine gene expression.