Aging-Related Mechanisms Contribute to Corticosteroid Insensitivity in Elderly Asthma

Overview

Journal Int J Mol Sci

Publisher MDPI

Specialties Biochemistry
Chemistry
Molecular Biology

Date 2023 Apr 13

PMID 37047327

Authors

Maria L Ford

Anushka Ruwanpathirana

Brandon W Lewis

Rodney D Britt Jr

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Asthma in elderly populations is an increasing health problem that is accompanied by diminished lung function and frequent exacerbations. As potent anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce lung inflammation, improve lung function, and manage disease symptoms in asthma. Although effective for most individuals, older patients are more insensitive to corticosteroids, making it difficult to manage asthma in this population. With the number of individuals older than 65 continuing to increase, it is important to understand the distinct mechanisms that promote corticosteroid insensitivity in the aging lung. In this review, we discuss corticosteroid insensitivity in asthma with an emphasis on mechanisms that contribute to persistent inflammation and diminished lung function in older individuals.

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