A key biochemical difference in people with severe asthma has been identified by an Australian-led research project which may lead to better treatment.

The team report the metabolite carnitine decreases in those with severe disease, independently of oral corticosteroid treatment.

In the study, led by biochemist Dr Stacey Reinke (PhD), of Edith Cowan University in Perth and Dr Craig Wheelock (PhD) of Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, shows those with severe asthma have a distinct metabolite profile detectable in their urine.

And the difference is clear enough to distinguish them from those with mild-to-moderate asthma and those without the condition, the researchers say.