Abstract
Introduction: Patients with refractory asthma are more susceptible to allergen- and infection-induced exacerbations. This susceptibility is poorly understood, but it may be related to an inefficient activation of innate host defence pathways. Interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), such as myxovirus resistance (MX1), 2'5'-oligoadenylate synthetase (OAS) and viperin are associated to biological activities, including antiviral, antiproliferative, and proapoptotic effects.
Objective: The aim of the study was investigate the expression of antiviral genes in patients with refractory compared with moderate and mild asthma.
Methods: The mRNA expression of the ISGs (MX1, OAS and viperin), interferon (IFN) type I (β) and type III (IL-28 and IL-29) were measured by RTq-PCR in cells of induced sputum from 19 healthy subjects, 19 mild, 22 moderate and 22 refractory asthmatics.
Results: The mRNA expression of Mx1 and viperin was significantly reduced in refractory asthmatics (p=0,04 and p= 0,03, respectively), while the mRNA expression of OAS, IFNβ, IL-28 and IL-29 was not different between groups.
Conclusion: The results point to a deficient innate immune response in refractory asthmatics demonstrated by a decreased expression of some interferon stimulated genes.
- © 2012 ERS
