Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
04:45
Mouse Model of Oleic Acid-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Published on: June 2, 2022
Increased vascular permeability precedes cellular inflammation as asthma control deteriorates
Y H Khor1, A K Y Teoh, S M Lam
1Respiratory Research Group, Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. yethkhor@gmail.com
Summary
Airway vascular leakage, not vascularity changes, drives early asthma deterioration. Increased albumin in airways indicates this leakage, preceding cellular inflammation recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Respiratory Research
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Airway microcirculation abnormalities are noted in asthma.
- The specific role of vascular changes in asthma exacerbations is not well understood.
- This study investigates vascular changes during asthma control worsening.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess airway vascularity, vascular permeability, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression.
- To investigate these factors in early asthma deterioration induced by inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose reduction.
- To understand the link between vascular changes and asthma symptom return.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 20 mild-to-moderate persistent asthmatics.
- Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose reduction model used to induce symptom return.
- Endobronchial biopsies and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples collected for analysis.
Main Results:
- Airway vascularity and VEGF expression did not change with ICS reduction.
- Vascular permeability markers (albumin, microalbumin) were elevated in asthmatics and increased significantly after ICS reduction.
- Increased vascular leakiness correlated with clinical deterioration and T lymphocyte infiltration.
Conclusions:
- Airway vascular leakage is a key feature of early asthma deterioration.
- This leakage occurs before the resurgence of cellular inflammation.
- Vascular leakage, not changes in vascularity, is central to early asthma worsening.
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...
01:13Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations
Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
01:24Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Classification of Asthma