[Neurogenic inflammation].

Airway neurogenic inflammation is caused by neuropeptides released from airway sensory nerves, and may be involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. Airway sensory nerves are stimulated by chemical mediators such as bradykinin and leukotrienes, hyperventilation and cigarette smoke. Presynaptic modulation of airway sensory nerves by opioids, histamine H3-agonists, NPY, and potassium channel openers is effective in the control of neurogenic inflammation. Tachykinin receptor antagonists also inhibit airway neurogenic inflammation. Recently, we have demonstrated that pretreatment with a tachykinin receptor antagonist can protect against bradykinin-induced airway narrowing in asthmatic patients. This evidence indicates that endogenously released tachykinins have a functional role in the airways of asthmatics.