Association of TLR2 (rs5743708) Gene Polymorphism with Asthma Susceptibility and the Impact of Smoking: (Case-Control Study).

Introduction: Asthma is a heterogeneous inflammatory disease characterized by persistent airway inflammation and heightened sensitivity. Its development is influenced by multiple factors, including genetic susceptibility and environmental elements such as tobacco smoke. Polymorphisms in TLR2 play a crucial role in the innate immune response and the development of asthma. This research examines the TLR2 rs5743708 (Arg753Gln) gene polymorphism and its relationship with asthma in relation to smoking exposure. This study aims to compare the frequency of TLR2 rs5743708 genotypes and alleles among Asthmatic smokers (Active or passive), Asthmatic non-smokers and Healthy controls.

Methods: A total of 90 participants were recruited for the study, categorized into three groups: asthmatic smokers, asthmatic non-smokers, and healthy controls. Genotyping and PCR-RFLP analysis were conducted alongside pulmonary function tests (PFTs) on the participants.

Results: The findings revealed that asthmatic smokers exhibited a significantly higher frequency of the GA genotype and A allele of TLR2 compared to both the non-smoking asthmatic and control groups. Furthermore, asthmatic smokers experienced more severe lung dysfun-ction, as indicated by reduced FEV₁ and FEV₁/FVC ratios.

Conclusion: This suggests a gene-environment interaction involving the TLR2 polymorphism and smoking, indicating an elevated risk and severity of asthma. The study's results underscore the importance of genetic assessment in chronic asthma patients, particularly in the context of smoking exposure, to inform treatment and management strategies.