Bronchial remodelling is a prominent feature of
severe asthma and a potential therapeutic target. Some data indicate that Th17 cytokines in particular IL-22 may be involved in remodelling processes
in vitro, and in
skin remodelling
in vivo. The aim of the inventors was to evaluate if Th17 cytokines are involved in bronchial remodelling in a severe model of
allergic asthma, and if this was amplified by co-
sensitization with NOD2
agonist, MDP, a ligand favouring Th17 polarization. Dog
allergen challenge led to a predominant neutrophilic infiltration in Broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL), increased dog-specific IgE production, airways hyperresponsiveness, and increased Th17
cytokine production. Increased bronchial remodeling was observed in dog
allergen challenged mice compared to control. IL-22 deficiency decreased
airway hyperresponsiveness, bronchial
mucus production as well as peribronchial collagen deposition, in the
allergen-challenged group. Th17 cytokines in particular IL-22 participate in the bronchial remodeling in a chronic model of neutrophilic
asthma, and may represent a therapeutic target in
severe asthma.