Transcriptomic profiling of the airway epithelium in COPD links airway eosinophilia to type 2 inflammation and corticosteroid response.

Background: A subset of COPD patients have high levels of eosinophils in the distal airways ("airway eosinophilia").

Objectives: To compare the gene expression of type 2 inflammation in airway epithelial brushings of COPD patients with and without airway eosinophilia and to investigate the changes after inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

Methods: Post-hoc analyses of the DISARM randomised controlled trial investigated the expression of airway inflammation (type 1, 2, and 17), IL-13, and mast cell gene signatures at baseline and after 12-week ICS treatment.

Myelin toxicity of chlorhexidine in zebrafish larvae.

Background: Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) is a topical antiseptic solution recommended for skin preparation before central venous catheter placement and maintenance in adults and children. Although CHG is not recommended for use in children aged <2 months owing to limited safety data, it is commonly used in neonatal intensive care units worldwide. We used zebrafish model to verify the effects of early-life exposure to CHG on the developing nervous system, highlighting its impact on oligodendrocyte development and myelination.

Effects of Inhaled Corticosteroid/Long-Acting β-Agonist Combination on the Airway Microbiome of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial (DISARM).

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are commonly prescribed with long-acting β-agonists (LABA) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To date, the effects of ICS therapy on the airway microbiome in COPD are unknown. To determine the effects of ICS/LABA on the airway microbiome of patients with COPD.