Dexamethasone calms lung inflammation without weakening core immune responses

Why did the team undertake this research?

Key findings

• Production of "inflammatory cytokines", TNF, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8, which increase inflammation, is markedly reduced following dexamethasone treatment. 
• Macrophages treated with dexamethasone retain their ability to control Mycobacterium avium.
• The findings demonstrate that inflammatory responses can be separated from bacterial control in human macrophages. 

What is the potential impact of this research?

As a result, new treatment options are badly needed.

Source:

Trinity College Dublin

Journal reference: