SOUTHAMPTON University scientists are hoping pioneering research may lead to new treatments for asthma sufferers.

Their research could bring fresh hope to thousands of Britain's sufferers, whose symptoms include coughing, wheezing, a shortness of breath and tightness in the chest.

They have discovered how a gene, already linked with asthma, contributes to the way the condition develops.

Findings from the study could also lead to new treatments for other diseases such as cancer.

Professors Donna Davies and Stephen Holgate, pictured, have discovered that the gene called ADAM33 led to the formation of new blood vessels.

It is these blood vessels that are responsible for carrying more inflammatory cells into a person's airways, causing swelling and structural changes that result in breathing difficulties.

Professor Davies said: "In both children and adults, the development of new blood vessels is believed to be an important aspect in the development of asthma, with increased levels linked to the severity of the disease.

"Treatments which specifically target the ADAM33 may therefore be effective in modifying the natural history of the disease."

Meanwhile, in a separate study asthma researchers have developed a new "artificial" airway in a test tube which could reduce the need for animal testing.

The academics are working with the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research on the project.

Professor Davies and Professor Hywel Morgan of the university's school of electronics and computer science are developing the artificial airway.

The device will allow researchers to fully understand how lung function is affected by air particles and allergens without animal testing.

Prof Morgan said: "This new model will allow us to measure the transport of materials and the challenges the airways are presented with."

According to the charity Asthma UK 5.2 million people in the UK are currently receiving treatment for asthma, including 1.1 million children. The charity estimates that there is a person with asthma in one in five households in the UK.