Researchers develop a novel agent to treat extrinsic asthma. In a clinical trial, patients with moderate to severe asthma treated with this medication experience fewer exacerbations. They are found to have lower levels of serum IgE, even after exposure to triggering allergens. This medication helps improve asthma symptoms by binding and inhibiting the substance produced by sensitized Th2 cells in the airways that promotes immunoglobulin isotype switching in B lymphocytes. Which of the following is the most likely target of this medication?

Question

Researchers develop a novel agent to treat extrinsic asthma.  In a clinical trial, patients with moderate to severe asthma treated with this medication experience fewer exacerbations.  They are found to have lower levels of serum IgE, even after exposure to triggering allergens.  This medication helps improve asthma symptoms by binding and inhibiting the substance produced by sensitized Th2 cells in the airways that promotes immunoglobulin isotype switching in B lymphocytes.  Which of the following is the most likely target of this medication?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: An excess of Th2 cell activity relative to Th1 cell activity may underlie the pathogenesis of asthma.  In the asthma sensitization phase, inhaled antigens stimulate Th2 cells to secrete IL-4 and IL-13, which together promote B-lymphocyte class switching for IgE synthesis, leading to mast cell priming.  Th2 cells also secrete IL-5, which activates eosinophils.

Researchers Develop a Novel Agent to Treat Extrinsic Asthma