Ozone-Induced Modulation Airway Hyperresponsiveness in Guinea Pigs

摘要

Asthma is one of the most common chronic and potentially disabling diseases among children and adults. It is characterized by three findings involving the airways: reversible airway obstruction, inflammation, and hyperresponsiveness. The last characteristic is defined as a heightened tendency of the bronchial airways to constrict. Studies with laboratory animals have shown that short-term exposure to ozone induces airway hyperresponsiveness. However, we have little information on the effects of longer-term ozone exposures. The study sought to determine whether long-term, intermittent exposure to ozone induces or exacerbates airway hyperresponsiveness.