JAK3 inhibitor suppresses multipotent ILC2s and attenuates steroid-resistant asthma

Sci Adv. 2023 Dec 22;9(51):eadi3770. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adi3770. Epub 2023 Dec 20.

Abstract

Steroids are the standard treatment for allergic airway inflammation in asthma, but steroid-refractory asthma poses a challenge. Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), such as T helper 2 (TH2) cells, produce key asthma-related type 2 cytokines. Recent insights from mouse and human studies indicate a potential connection between ILC2s and steroid-resistant asthma. Here, we highlight that lung ILC2s, rather than TH2 cells, can develop steroid resistance, allowing them to persist and maintain their disease-driving activity even during steroid treatment. The emergence of multipotent IL-5+IL-13+IL-17A+ ILC2s is associated with steroid-resistant ILC2s. The Janus kinase 3 (JAK3)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3, 5, and 6 pathways contribute to the acquisition of steroid-resistant ILC2s. The JAK3 inhibitor reduces ILC2 survival, proliferation, and cytokine production in vitro and ameliorates ILC2-driven Alternaria-induced asthma. Furthermore, combining a JAK3 inhibitor with steroids results in the inhibition of steroid-resistant asthma. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic approach for addressing this challenging condition in chronic asthma.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Asthma* / drug therapy
  • Asthma* / metabolism
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Inflammation
  • Janus Kinase 3
  • Janus Kinase Inhibitors*
  • Lymphocytes / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Steroids

Substances

  • Janus Kinase Inhibitors
  • Cytokines
  • Steroids
  • JAK3 protein, human
  • Janus Kinase 3