Evaluation of Salivary Alpha-Amylase as a Potential Biomarker of Inhaled Beta-2 Agonist Response

In individuals with asthma, chronic use of short (SABAs) and long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) can lead to loss of bronchoprotection (LOBP) from direct and indirect stimuli.1-3 It is hypothesized that LOBP is the result of beta-2 receptor down-regulation, reduced production or internalization of receptors, and uncoupling from secondary messengers leading to desensitization of beta-2 receptors.4 Assessment of beta-2 receptor activation is a laborious process.5 Therefore, a biomarker that serves as an indirect method of measuring beta-2 receptor activation would facilitate clinical studies on beta-2 agonist-induced LOBP and beta-2 receptor desensitization.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Letters Source Type: research