Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026
08:05
Murine Model of Allergen Induced Asthma
Published on: May 14, 2012
Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency asthma and allergy
A G Palma-Carlos1, M L Palma-Carlos
1Clinical Allergy Immunology Center-CAIC, Lisbon, Portugal.
European Annals of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|May 26, 2007
Summary
Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) impacts biochemistry and genetics. This review covers AATD phenotypes in Europe, presenting cases and discussing AATD
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Pathology
Background:
- Review of alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) biochemistry, genetics, and pathology.
- Discussion of AATD phenotypes (M, SZ) geographical distribution in Europe.
Observation:
- Presentation of two AATD cases: one ZZ homozygote (non-smoker, no respiratory issues) and one SZ heterozygote (heavy smoker, severe COPD with asthma-like reversibility).
Findings:
- Highlights the variable clinical presentation of AATD based on genotype and environmental factors (smoking).
- Suggests a potential link between alpha-1-antitrypsin levels and asthma development or severity.
Implications:
- Informs understanding of AATD's complex relationship with respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma.
- Suggests potential avenues for AATD treatment and prevention strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
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:
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:
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
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 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.
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
01:19Antiasthma Drugs: Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers, or cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonists, are medications used to manage chronic asthma. These agents target specific inflammatory mediators produced during arachidonic acid metabolism, an essential process in generating inflammation in the body.
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
01:23Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Emphysema, a major phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by irreversible destruction of alveolar walls and permanent enlargement of distal airspaces. Unlike chronic bronchitis, which primarily affects the airways, emphysema predominantly involves the lung parenchyma, where structural damage leads to airflow limitation.PathophysiologyIt most commonly results from prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and other toxic gases, particularly cigarette smoke.