Abstract: Provided herein are compositions and methods for the characterization and treatment of asthma.

Abstract: The present invention is based on the discovery that a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) present the chitinase 3-like 1 gene (CHI3L1) encoding YKL-40 or a regulatory domain of the CHI3L1 gene, is associated with elevated YKL-40 levels, as well as an increased risk for developing a lung disorder, including asthma, bronchial hyperresponsivity, and/or reduced lung function.

Abstract: Analysis of microRNA interference with HLA-G expression identified the HLA-G 3?UTR SNP+3142G/C that disrupts a target for microRNA 148 (miR148) and is associated with asthma. The polymorphism is associated with protection from (or susceptibility to) moderate to severe viral infection in the first 3 years of life and asthma by age 6, with an interaction with mother's affection status (asthma). A SNP in the 3?-Untranslated Region (UTR) of HLA-G influences the targeting of 3 micro(mi)RNAs to the gene. Allele-specific targeting of these miRNAs accounts, at least in part, for the association between HLA-G and the risk of asthma.

Abstract: Assays, including those available in kits, are used to obtain HLA-G genotypes. Kits provide reagents and devices to type biological samples for HLA-G through use of SNPs. Genotypes are predictors of risk.