Leukemia inhibitory factor in the neuroimmune communication pathways in allergic asthma

• Increased LIF and NGF were detected in lung, DRG, and brain stems of asthmatic rat.
• De novo synthesis of LIF/NGF only increased in lung, but not in DRG and brain stem.
• Pretreatment with LIF antibody decreased the level of LIF and NGF in asthmatic rat.
• LIF seems to be required for airway inflammation and central sensitization in asthma.