In Utero Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke and Its Effects on Adult Asthma Responses in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Penn Arthur L., Rouse Rodney L., Horohov David W., Kearney Michael T., Paulsen Daniel B., Lomax Larry
Primary Institution: Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine
Hypothesis
In utero ETS exposure alters airway function and respiratory immune responses in adults.
Conclusion
In utero ETS exposure exacerbates subsequent adult responses to initial allergen exposure.
Supporting Evidence
- Exposure to ETS in utero did not alter respiratory structure or function in healthy mice.
- Increased airway hyperresponsiveness was observed in mice exposed to ETS in utero when challenged with allergens.
- OVA tolerance was not overcome by in utero ETS exposure.
- Adult responses to allergens were significantly exacerbated in mice exposed to ETS in utero.
Takeaway
Mice that were exposed to tobacco smoke while in their mothers' bellies had worse reactions to allergens when they grew up.
Methodology
Pregnant BALB/c mice were exposed to environmental tobacco smoke or filtered air, and their offspring were later exposed to allergens to assess immune responses.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the interpretation of results due to the controlled laboratory environment.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a mouse model, which may not fully replicate human responses.
Participant Demographics
BALB/c mice, both male and female, were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website