Background:The Transforming Growth Factor ? (TGF-?) is one of the main cytokines involved in mediating inflammation and bronchial remodeling.In long-term inflammation, the airways become stiffened and airflow is impaired, which is sometimes reflected by lower values of spirometric parameters. What may also be observed in aging organs are intensified fibrotic processes.

Aims:The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between concentrations of all the TGF-?1-3 isoforms and selected clinical parameters, including pulmonary function indices assessed by spirometry.

Methods:There were recruited 41 patients with asthma and 28 healthy volunteers.A complete medical examination, a personal survey and blood tests were taken. The spirometry was performed according to the ERS and ATS guidelines.The isoforms of TGF-?1, TGF-?2, TGF-?3 were determined by ELISA (Elabscience® ELISA kits). A statistical analysis using t-Student test, U Mann-Whitney test, Fisher test and Pearson?s correlation test was performed. 

Results: The obtained results show significantly increased TGF-?1 and TGF-?2 levels among the elderly, both diseased and healthy individuals. Additionally, higher TGF-?1 and TGF-?2 concentrations correlate significantly with a decreased FEV1%/FVC ratio, while TGF-?2 alone also correlates negatively with FEV1 and FVC values.

Conclusion: The TGF-?1 and TGF-?2 isoforms have been shown to be associated with the pathogenesis of asthma. Expression of TGF-?1 and TGF-?2 increases with age. Higher concentrations of TGF-?1 and TGF-?2 significantly translate into worsening spirometric values. It is worth continuing research on TGF-? as a potential marker of remodeling in asthma.