Characterization of Natural Killer Cells in Severe Asthma Patients Compared With Controls Identifying Biomarkers and Response During Virus-Induced Exacerbations

What this Trial Is About

Asthma is a widespread chronic lung condition affecting around 300 million people globally. It involves bronchial inflammation, hyperreactivity, and tissue changes, causing symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, and wheezing due to airway obstruction. The disease can worsen with flare-ups often triggered by viral infections, especially rhinoviruses. This research aims to study natural killer (NK) cells in severe asthma, focusing on molecules they express differently compared to healthy individuals. The goal is to find biomarkers to help diagnose and monitor severe asthma and its flare-ups, particularly during virus-induced exacerbations. Participants include people with severe asthma in different states—controlled, uncontrolled without exacerbation, and uncontrolled with exacerbation—as well as healthy volunteers as controls. The study involves collecting blood samples to analyze NK cells and their interaction with bronchial epithelial cells. Researchers will examine how NK cells respond to rhinovirus infections in laboratory settings, both alone and with lung cells, to identify molecules involved in these interactions. During the study, participants will provide blood samples and undergo assessments over a period that can last up to about seven years. Researchers will track changes in molecules on NK cells, measure NK cell activation, and evaluate how NK cells affect lung cell activation and viability. This long-term follow-up aims to improve understanding of severe asthma mechanisms, potentially leading to better disease monitoring and treatment strategies.

Characterization of Natural Killer Cells in Severe Asthma Patients in Comparison With Control Subjects