Asthma prevention and treatment using UVB radiation-induced immunomodulation

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The prevalence of asthma is increasing despite the adoption of modern expensive drugs. Our studies suggest that exposure of skin to an erythemal dose of the wavelengths of UVB radiation found in sunlight can suppress responses to allergens encountered in the airways. We are requesting support to study the mechanisms in mice by which exposure to UVB radiation on their shaved backs can reduce inflammation in the airway mucosa upon allergen exposure. Whole body immunomodulatory effects of UVB radiation have been previously described but have not been scientifically linked with asthma development. This is a very new and novel research area which supports century-old anecdotal reports that holidays at beach and mountain resorts associated with increased UVB exposure are beneficial in asthma treatment. This is a proof of principle study. If we can confirm that UVB is immunomodulatory and better understand the mechanisms by which UVB suppresses inflammation in the airways, we will investigate the potential of non-carcinogenic, UVB-induced, skin-derived intermediary molecules to have the same regulatory effects.