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Published on: October 15, 2019
Breathing Better Through Bugs: Asthma and the Microbiome
Alexander J Adami1, Sonali J Bracken1
1Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT.
Abstract:
Asthma is a highly heterogeneous disease characterized by inflammation of the airways, which invokes symptoms such as wheeze, dyspnea, and chest tightness. Asthma is the product of multiple interconnected immunological processes and represents a constellation of related, but distinct, disease phenotypes. The prevalence of asthma has more than doubled since the 1980s, and efforts to understand this increase have inspired consideration of the microbiome as a key player in the pathophysiology and regulation of this disease. While recent years have seen an explosion of new research in this area, researchers are only beginning to untangle to mechanisms by which the microbiome may influence asthma. This review will focus on the relationship between the microbiome and the immune system and how this influences development of asthma. This review will also highlight evidence that may point the way toward new therapies and potential cures for this ancient respiratory foe.
Insights
The human microbiome plays a crucial role in asthma development. Understanding the microbiome-immune system interaction may lead to new asthma therapies and potential cures.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Asthma is a complex respiratory disease with increasing prevalence.
- It is characterized by airway inflammation and diverse phenotypes.
- The role of the microbiome in asthma pathophysiology is an emerging area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between the microbiome and the immune system in asthma.
- To explore how these interactions influence asthma development.
- To highlight potential therapeutic strategies targeting the microbiome for asthma.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on the microbiome and asthma.
- Analysis of immunological mechanisms linking the microbiome to asthma.
- Synthesis of evidence for microbiome-based therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- The microbiome significantly influences immune system development and regulation.
- Alterations in the microbiome are associated with increased asthma risk and severity.
- Specific microbial compositions may predispose individuals to or protect against asthma.
Conclusions:
- The microbiome is a critical factor in asthma development and immune response.
- Targeting the microbiome offers promising avenues for novel asthma treatments.
- Further research into microbiome-immune interactions is essential for finding cures.
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