The Role of Structural Cells on Airway Remodeling and Their Response to Asthma Medication

Authors: Chakir, Jamila; Semlali, Abdelhabib; Jacques, Eric

Source: Current Respiratory Medicine Reviews, Volume 4, Number 1, February 2008 , pp. 6-12(7)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

In asthma, bronchial mucosal tissues are chronically infiltrated by activated inflammatory cells (mainly lymphocytes and eosinophils) that have the capacity to produce a wide range of cytokines (IL-4, IL-5) and mediators (leucotrienes, prostaglandins, etc.). These molecules may significantly change the functional and phenotypic behavior of resident cells (epithelial cells, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, etc.) In addition to their role in tissue repair, resident cells are an important source of cytokines. They play an active role in modulating the immune response, suggesting that they may be involved in the maintenance and chronicity of the inflammatory response. These cells are also involved in structural changes observed in asthma, such as subepithelial fibrosis [3]. The alteration in the structure of the bronchial tree appears to be one of the factors involved in the persistence of bronchial hyperreactivity [4]. This review will focus on the role of structural cells on airway remodeling and their response to asthma medication.

Keywords: Asthma; airway remodeling; epithelium repair; fibroblasts; asthma medication

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157339808783497783

Publication date: 2008-02-01

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Current Respiratory Medicine Reviews publishes frontier reviews on all the latest advances on respiratory diseases and its related areas e.g. pharmacology, pathogenesis, clinical care, and therapy. The journal's aim is to publish the highest quality review articles dedicated to clinical research in the field. The journal is essential reading for all researchers and clinicians in respiratory medicine.