FIVE THINGS ABOUT AN ASTHMA CURE

1 SWITCH FOUND

A cure for asthma is on the horizon after scientists discovered a genetic switch that prevents the condition. Research in England discovered that the gene ADAM33 plays a crucial role in causing the twitchiness and inflammation of airways that triggers an attack. The gene makes an enzyme that attaches to the muscles in the airways.

2 GOING ROGUE

Studies in human tissue samples and mice show that if the gene is switched off the enzyme stops being a problem. Prof. Hans Michael Haitchi said: “We believe that if you block ADAM33 from going rogue or you stop its activity if it does go rogue, asthma could be prevented.”

3 MILLIONS ARE AFFECTED

Around three million people in Canada suffer from asthma, according to the Asthma Society of Canada, but the new study suggests that a drug to knock out the effects of the ADAM33 gene could prevent attacks. On its own, rogue human ADAM33 causes airway remodelling, resulting in more muscle and blood vessels around the airways of developing lungs, but does not cause problems. However, when scientists introduced a house dust mite, both airway remodelling and allergic airway inflammation were enhanced.

4 WHAT IS ASTHMA?

Asthma is a condition that can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Common triggers include house dust mites, animal fur, pollen, cigarette smoke and viral infections.

5 WHO IS AFFECTED?

Asthma is more common in women than men. For children diagnosed with asthma, the condition may disappear or improve during the teenage years.