Blocking a molecule can treat breathing problems

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: This could definitely be considered as another significant addition to the field of health. As per a study conducted by a team of researchers, blocking a certain signalling molecule can alleviate symptoms for breathing problems like asthma.

The study has shown that hampering the production of Interleukin 1 (IL-1) plays an essential role in the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses to infections. This could ease the symptoms, such as mucus, swelling and constriction of the airways in the lungs.

"We found that by adding a signalling molecule Interleukin 1 (IL-1) using an experimental model of allergic asthma, the symptoms would worsen dramatically," said lead researcher Stephan Caucheteux from Cardiff University in Britain.

The allergic immune response, which triggers the symptoms of asthma, is a complex process, which starts with the over-activation of a certain white blood cell, the allergen-specific helper T cells type 2 that plays an important role in the immune system.

(With IANS inputs)