Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
10:39
Advanced Imaging of Lung Homing Human Lymphocytes in an Experimental In Vivo Model of Allergic Inflammation Based on Light-sheet Microscopy
Published on: April 16, 2019
The brain and asthma: what are the linkages?
1Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA. wwb@medicine.wisc.edu
Chemical Immunology and Allergy
|July 7, 2012
Summary
Stress exacerbates asthma by enhancing airway inflammation and potentially reducing corticosteroid effectiveness. Brain imaging reveals stress-activated neural circuits linked to asthma severity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Stress is a known asthma exacerbator, but underlying mechanisms are unclear.
- The relationship between stress and airway inflammation requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of stress in the development of airway inflammation in asthma.
- To explore novel mechanisms by which stress influences asthma severity and treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on stress and asthma.
- Analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies in humans.
- Examination of findings from murine models of chronic stress and asthma.
Main Results:
- Stress may enhance, rather than cause, airway inflammation.
- Specific brain regions (anterior cingulate cortex, insula) show stress-related activation correlating with asthma responses.
- Chronic stress in mice increases airway inflammation and corticosteroid resistance.
Conclusions:
- Chronic stress significantly worsens asthma severity through novel pathways.
- Stress-induced changes may lead to reduced responsiveness to standard asthma treatments.
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:
01:29Asthma-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...
01:20Asthma: 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.
01:24Asthma-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
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes: