Neurotrophins as a Link Between Cells Involved in the Pathogenesis of Asthma

Currently, research into the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma focuses primarily on immune inflammation and airway remodeling. Both the immune and nervous systems are involved in the development of airway inflammation. Neurotrophic factors, particularly neurotrophins, are expressed by both neuronal and non-neuronal cells. In the lungs, neuro trophins are expressed by epithelial cells, alveolar and interstitial macrophages, eosinophils, and lymphocytes. Disruption of the relationship between nerve, epithelial, and immune cells in the lungs may play a significant role in the pathophysiological changes associated with bronchi al asthma. Aim. The aim of this study is to systematize current knowledge about the neuroimmune mechanisms of bronchial asthma and the role of neurotrophins in mediating the interactions between immune, epithelial cells, and neurons involved in the development of bronchi al hyperreactivity, eosinophilic inflammation, and airway remodeling. Materials and Methods. A narrative literature review was per formed, encompassing 97 publications from 2016 to 2025, to examine the interactions between neurotrophins, immune cells, epithelial cells, and neurons in asthma. Results. Both allergic and non-allergic asthma share an identical inflammatory response mechanism, which is driven by the production of leukocyte-derived, epithelial-derived, and neuro genic mediators and ultimately leads to airway remodelling. The paper discusses the interplay between airway immune inflammation and nervous system activity in a feedback-loop manner. On the one hand, parasympathetic, sympathetic, and sensory neurons act via ILC2-expressed receptors to induce contraction or relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle cells and to trigger or suppress Th2-type inflammation. On the oth er hand, mediators secreted by immune cells stimulate neurons to produce neurotrophins and neuropeptides. Cell survival capacity depends on the number and profile of receptors for neurotrophic factors. The article outlines the currently known pathways of neurotrophin interactions with the nervous and immune systems. Conclusion. The need for further research to elucidate the possibility of regulating neuroimmune disorders is substantiated.

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