In recent years epidemiological studies have demonstrated a dramatic increase in allergic sensitization, leading to atopic diseases including asthma being among the most common chronic illnesses with more than 15% of children and adolescents aged 0-17 years affected. In addition, acute asthma exacerbations triggered by respiratory virus infections result in frequent outpatient visits and hospitalizations, and are therefore a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Since there are no specific curative therapeutic approaches, measures to prevent asthma or to control respiratory virus infections are of particular significance. Our research lab aims to determine novel indirect and direct prevention measures by linking data from translational animal studies and primary patient material.
