London: A team at the University of Leicester, in collaboration with researchers from the University of Copenhagen and Queen Mary University of London, has conducted a groundbreaking study investigating the genetics of chronic cough. Their findings were published in the European Respiratory Journal.
According to Emirates News Agency, the research included nearly 30,000 individuals experiencing chronic cough, sourced from various population health resources such as the UK Biobank, EXCEED Study, the Copenhagen Hospital Biobank, Genes and Health, and the eMERGE Network. As the largest genetic study of its kind, it uncovered genes involved in neuronal signalling and sensory pathways, indicating a neurological basis for chronic cough.
The findings enhance the understanding of cough reflex hypersensitivity as a process mediated by the nervous system, paving the way for the development of targeted treatments. Furthermore, the study highlighted shared genetics between chronic cough and chronic pain, suggesting common neurological mechanisms. This revelation lays a promising foundation for future research and could aid in developing strategies to manage both conditions effectively.
Dr. Kayesha Coley, from the University of Leicester’s Genetic Epidemiology group, who led the study, stated, ‘Our study represents a major step forward for understanding the biological mechanisms underlying the condition, and we hope it will inform future drug developments.’
Chronic cough can severely impact quality of life, leading to fatigue, breathlessness, disturbed sleep, and emotional distress. For many, it becomes a debilitating condition, disrupting everyday life and social interactions.