Study finds inflammatory pathways behind asthma attacks in children

Scientists have found inflammatory pathways that contribute to asthma flare-ups in children that occur despite treatment.

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Eosinophilic asthma is characterized by high levels of eosinophils—a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response. While eosinophils typically help fight infections, in eosinophilic asthma, they accumulate in the lungs and airways, causing chronic inflammation, swelling, and damage to the respiratory system.

Eosinophilic asthma is driven by type 2 (T2) inflammation—an immune response involving cytokines that promote the production and activation of eosinophils. Because of this, therapies targeting T2 inflammation are used to reduce eosinophil levels and prevent asthma flare-ups.