PREOBLIKOVANJE DIHALNIH POTI - ANGIOGENEZA PRI RINITISU IN ASTMI IN VPLIV VEGF POLIMORFIZMOV (Slovene)

The presence of an inflammatory response and airway remodeling are cornerstones in the pathogenesis of asthma. Airway wall remodeling in asthma involves a number of changes, including important changes at the level of angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is a complex process, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most potent proangiogenic factors and one of the main targets of our research. Such molecules might be feasible targets for next generation of treatment, which should affect airway remodeling. Functional polymorphisms of different genes are probably the main determine of susceptibility for developing airway remodeling. Therefore better understanding of such genetic background should be helpful in evaluating of different asthma phenotypes and in selecting a more appropriate type of therapy. In summary, this project significantly improve the understanding of airway remodeling in asthma, rhinitis and COPD, especially concerning the role of VEGF. With additional clinically validated replication, our findings could significantly contribute to the development of individualized asthma therapy.

Asthma and allergy are Europe’s most common chronic diseases and their prevalence is increasing. Moreover, we recently showed high asthma prevalence of 16.3% in Slovenian adult population. Even higher numbers were found in pediatric population, as some studies showed that up to one child in three is affected, and trends indicate that in next decade, half of all Europeans may be suffering from an allergy. The addressing of a very important part of asthma developing and progress might be a highly beneficial for quality of life in Slovenia and Europe.