Lipopolysaccharide induces steroid‐resistant exacerbations in a mouse model of allergic airway disease collectively through IL‐13 and pulmonary macrophage activation

Abstract

Acute exacerbations of asthma represent a major burden of disease and are often caused by respiratory infections. Viral infections are recognized as significant triggers of exacerbations; however, less is understood about the how microbial bioproducts such as the endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide (LPS)) trigger episodes. Indeed, increased levels of LPS have been linked to asthma onset, severity and steroid resistance.