Airway smooth muscle thickness and contraction are enhanced by intra-amniotic lipopolysaccharide in an ovine model of premature birth

Abstract

Abnormalities of the airway smooth muscle (ASM) layer in asthma may develop before birth. Using an ovine model of antenatal inflammation, we demonstrate thickening and increased contraction of the premature ASM layer. If such physiological abnormalities persist throughout postnatal life, this represents a predisposition to an asthma diagnosis.