Asthma-Associated Viruses Specifically Induce Lung Stromal Cells to Produce Interleukin-11, a Mediator of Airways Hyperreactivity

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus, and parainfluenza virus type 3 often are associated with exacerbations of asthma and airways hyperreactivity.1,2 Their effects are thought to be mediated by direct airway injury and in part by the local inflammatory response.3 However, the cellular events that mediate these processes are understood poorly. Interleukin-11 (IL-11) is a newly appreciated pleoiotropic cytokine of the IL-6 family.4 Early studies focused on its roles in hematopoiesis, ability to stimulate the acute phase response, and inhibit adipocyte differentiation.