PGI2 Controls Pulmonary NK Cells That Prevent Airway Sensitization to House Dust Mite Allergen.

In allergic asthma, inhalation of airborne allergens such as the house dust mite (HDM) effectively activates both innate and adaptive immunity in the lung mucosa. To determine the role of the eicosanoid PGI and its receptor IP during allergic airway sensitization, HDM responses in mice lacking a functional IP receptor (i.e.

S-nitrosoglutathione reductase inhibition regulates allergen-induced lung inflammation and airway hyperreactivity.

Allergic asthma is characterized by Th2 type inflammation, leading to airway hyperresponsivenes, mucus hypersecretion and tissue remodeling. S-Nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) is an alcohol dehydrogenase involved in the regulation of intracellular levels of S-nitrosothiols. GSNOR activity has been shown to be elevated in human asthmatic lungs, resulting in diminished S-nitrosothiols and thus contributing to increased airway hyperreactivity.