Asthma

As common as asthma is, exactly how it starts remains murky. Scientists have now identified a new root cause, and importantly a new angle for treating the disease that can prevent the main symptoms.

Combining census data with cutting-edge statistical analysis and satellite imagery, researchers have revealed a stark difference between inner- and outer-city living in terms of the risk children have of developing asthma.

A new study has found that exposing babies to prescription opioids while they’re in the womb can increase their risk of developing immune-related conditions – particularly infections, eczema and asthma – in early childhood.

Researchers found that 92% of severe asthmatics could decrease their daily steroid dose after receiving biologic therapy to reduce lung inflammation, minimizing the risk of adverse effects associated with long-term steroid use.

Many assumed asthmatic children would be more prone to severe COVID-19 infection, but a new study suggests that, compared to children who don’t have asthma, those with the condition are not at greater risk of serious COVID infection.

Researchers investigating the genetics underlying the airway inflammation seen in severe asthma have, for the first time, discovered that proteins that bind to RNA are dysregulated, driving changes in gene expression in cells that line the airways.

A new study suggests that people with low levels of vitamin K in their blood are more likely to have reduced lung function and to report lung problems like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or wheezing.

Researchers have found a link between infant food allergy and asthma in later childhood. They say their findings can help healthcare professionals to be more vigilant around monitoring the respiratory health of children with early food allergies.

Researchers have uncovered the molecular mechanisms that drive the inflammatory response in severe asthmatics. Their findings may lead to the development of an effective treatment for the potentially life-threatening condition.

Humans have bitter taste receptors not only in their mouths but in their lungs, too. Researchers have exploited these receptors’ innate ability to dilate the airways to create a potent new drug that may change how we treat diseases like asthma and COPD.

By modifying an off-the-shelf Wi-Fi router with a firmware update and using a deep-learning algorithm, scientists have been able to detect breathing patterns that indicate respiratory distress in a medical mannequin.

New research from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology has brought a novel, long-term treatment for severe asthma a step closer, presenting a potential way to block the thickening of airway muscle tissue seen in chronic asthma patients.