Rather than easing constriction and swelling, researchers are working on a
treatment that would actually reduce mucus production in the lungs:
A two-drug treatment may one day help restore healthy breathing in those
with asthma and chronic bronchitis, according to a study at Washington
University in St. Louis.
Dr. Michael Holtzman and other researchers found that some cells lining
the air passages of the lungs transform into another cell type in mice and
humans with those disorders, leading to the overproduction of mucus in the
airways.
Though researchers expect it would take at least a few years for
further testing of the treatments, they think that combining two drugs
ultimately could prevent the harmful transformation of the lining cells,
allowing for healthy airway function.
Even if it is a few years off, it's still a glimmer of hope!!
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