Microglia Activation in Asthma
The goal of this clinical trail is to learn about how asthma influences brain function. The main questions it aims to answer are: * How airway inflammation in asthma affects the brain; and, * Whether airway inflammation in asthma is related to symptoms of depression and anxiety Over the course of 6 visits, participants will: * Complete questionnaires * Complete computer tasks * Undergo allergy skin test * Undergo breathing tests including two whole lung allergen challenges * Give four blood samples * Complete brain imaging scans
• Individuals with no health concerns that might affect the outcome of the study.
• Age 18-75 years of age.
• Physician diagnosis of asthma for at least six months prior to screening (can be determined at the discretion of an asthma/allergy physician member of the study team). Mild asthma will be defined as asthma that is well controlled with low-intensity treatment, e.g., SABA alone, as-needed low-dose ICS-LABA, or low-dose ICS plus as-needed SABA.
• At least a 20% decrease in forced expiratory volume (FEV1) during the immediate response following the screening inhaled allergen challenge.
• FEV1 ≥ 70% predicted at baseline.
• Positive immediate skin test for allergies to cat hair, house dust mite, or ragweed (historical data documented within the last 5 years with our research group is acceptable).
• Ability to tolerate a simulated MRI brain scanning session.
• In the opinion of the investigator, capable and willing to grant written informed consent and cooperate with study procedures and requirements.
• High-affinity TSPO-binding genotype. Mixed (high/low) binding-affinity genotype may be included at PIs discretion.