De-regulated expression of microRNAs contributes to augmented T helper (TH) cell activity in experimental asthma

Background: Bronchial asthma is a heterogeneous chronic inflammatory disease, which is orchestrated by antigen-specific TH cells. By secreting cytokines, these cells shape the augmented immune response, which finally leads to structural changes of chronic inflamed airways. MicroRNA (miRNA), as small non-coding RNAs, are recognized as key regulatory elements in gene expression and have been linked with a number of complex human chronic inflammatory diseases. Yet, their implication in augmented TH cell activity in asthma has not been thoroughly investigated. Methods: T helper cell were isolated from murine lungs i…