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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Models to Investigate the Epithelial Barrier in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Models to Investigate the Epithelial Barrier in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Published on: May 10, 2024

Targeting eosinophils in asthma.

Paul S Foster¹, Helene F Rosenberg, Kelly L Asquith

¹Discipline of Immunology & Microbiology, Faculty of Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle NSW, Australia. Paul.Foster@newcastle.edu.au

Current Molecular Medicine

|September 11, 2008

Summary

Eosinophils are key in asthma inflammation but their role in host defense is unclear. Targeting eosinophils for asthma therapy may increase respiratory viral infection risk, potentially worsening asthma exacerbations.

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Published on: December 17, 2017

Area of Science:

Immunology
Pulmonology
Allergy

Background:

Eosinophil recruitment is a hallmark of asthma.
Eosinophil functions in host defense are not well understood.
Eosinophils play regulatory roles in the immune response and host defense against respiratory viruses.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the role of eosinophils in asthma pathophysiology.
To evaluate the potential of targeting eosinophils for asthma therapy.
To assess the risks associated with eliminating eosinophils.

Main Methods:

Review of existing evidence on eosinophil function in asthma and host defense.
Discussion of novel therapeutic strategies targeting eosinophils, such as antibodies against the beta common chain receptor.
Analysis of potential risks and clinical implications of eosinophil depletion.

Main Results:

Eosinophils have a significant role in asthma pathophysiology.
Targeting eosinophils with antibodies against the interleukin-5 receptor (IL-5R) is a potential therapeutic strategy.
Eliminating eosinophils may increase susceptibility to respiratory viral infections.

Conclusions:

Eosinophils are significant contributors to asthma, making them potential therapeutic targets.
Therapeutic strategies aimed at eliminating eosinophils may carry risks, including increased viral infections and asthma exacerbations.
Further research is needed to balance the therapeutic benefits of targeting eosinophils with potential adverse effects.