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Bradding P, Porsbjerg C, Côté A, Dahlén SE, Hallstrand TS, Brightling CE. Airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma: The role of the epithelium. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 153:1181-1193. [PMID: 38395082 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2024.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is a key clinical feature of asthma. The presence of AHR in people with asthma provides the substrate for bronchoconstriction in response to numerous diverse stimuli, contributing to airflow limitation and symptoms including breathlessness, wheeze, and chest tightness. Dysfunctional airway smooth muscle significantly contributes to AHR and is displayed as increased sensitivity to direct pharmacologic bronchoconstrictor stimuli, such as inhaled histamine and methacholine (direct AHR), or to endogenous mediators released by activated airway cells such as mast cells (indirect AHR). Research in in vivo human models has shown that the disrupted airway epithelium plays an important role in driving inflammation that mediates indirect AHR in asthma through the release of cytokines such as thymic stromal lymphopoietin and IL-33. These cytokines upregulate type 2 cytokines promoting airway eosinophilia and induce the release of bronchoconstrictor mediators from mast cells such as histamine, prostaglandin D2, and cysteinyl leukotrienes. While bronchoconstriction is largely due to airway smooth muscle contraction, airway structural changes known as remodeling, likely mediated in part by epithelial-derived mediators, also lead to airflow obstruction and may enhance AHR. In this review, we outline the current knowledge of the role of the airway epithelium in AHR in asthma and its implications on the wider disease. Increased understanding of airway epithelial biology may contribute to better treatment options, particularly in precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bradding
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, Leicester Respiratory National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Celeste Porsbjerg
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andréanne Côté
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Université Laval, Laval, Quebec, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université Laval, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sven-Erik Dahlén
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Teal S Hallstrand
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Wash; Center for Lung Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Wash.
| | - Christopher E Brightling
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, Leicester Respiratory National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.
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2
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Yasuda Y, Wang L, Chitano P, Seow CY. Critical roles of airway smooth muscle in mediating deep-inspiration-induced bronchodilation: a big stretch? Respir Res 2023; 24:250. [PMID: 37853472 PMCID: PMC10585885 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02538-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deep inspiration (DI) has been shown to induce bronchodilation and bronchoprotection in bronchochallenged healthy subjects, but not in asthmatics. Strain-induced relaxation of airway smooth muscle (ASM) is considered one of the factors responsible for these effects. Other factors include the release or redistribution of pulmonary surfactant, alteration in mucus plugs, and changes in airway heterogeneity. MAIN BODY The present review is focused on the DI effect on ASM function, based on recent findings from ex vivo sheep lung experiments showing a large change in airway diameter during a DI. The amount of stretch on the airways, when applied to isolated airway rings in vitro, caused a substantial decrease in ASM contractility that takes many minutes to recover. When challenged with a bronchoconstrictor, the increase in pulmonary resistance in the ex vivo ovine lungs is mostly due to the increase in airway resistance. CONCLUSIONS Although non-ASM related factors cannot be excluded, the large strain on the airways associated with a DI substantially reduces ASM contractility and thus can account for most of the bronchodilatory and bronchoprotective effects of DI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuto Yasuda
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, University of British Columbia, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Lu Wang
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, University of British Columbia, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Pasquale Chitano
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, University of British Columbia, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Chun Y Seow
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care, University of British Columbia, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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3
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Tjong J, Pendlmayr S, Barter J, Chen J, Maksym GN, Quinn TA, Frampton JP. Cell-contact-mediated assembly of contractile airway smooth muscle rings. Biomed Mater 2023; 18. [PMID: 36801856 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/acbd09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Microtissues in the shape of toroidal rings provide an ideal geometry to better represent the structure and function of the airway smooth muscle present in the small airways, and to better understand diseases such as asthma. Here, polydimethylsiloxane devices consisting of a series of circular channels surrounding central mandrels are used to form microtissues in the shape of toroidal rings by way of the self-aggregation and -assembly of airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) suspensions. Over time, the ASMCs present in the rings become spindle-shaped and axially align along the ring circumference. Ring strength and elastic modulus increase over 14 d in culture, without significant changes in ring size. Gene expression analysis indicates stable expression of mRNA for extracellular matrix-associated proteins, including collagen I and lamininsα1 andα4 over 21 d in culture. Cells within the rings respond to TGF-β1 treatment, leading to dramatic decreases in ring circumference, with increases in mRNA and protein levels for extracellular matrix and contraction-associated markers. These data demonstrate the utility of ASMC rings as a platform for modeling diseases of the small airways such as asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Tjong
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Stefan Pendlmayr
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Jena Barter
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Julie Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Geoffrey N Maksym
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Physics & Atmospheric Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - T Alexander Quinn
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - John P Frampton
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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4
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Khalfaoui L, Pabelick CM. Airway smooth muscle in contractility and remodeling of asthma: potential drug target mechanisms. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:19-29. [PMID: 36744401 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2177533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is characterized by enhanced airway contractility and remodeling where airway smooth muscle (ASM) plays a key role, modulated by inflammation. Understanding the mechanisms by which ASM contributes to these features of asthma is essential for the development of novel asthma therapies. AREAS COVERED Inflammation in asthma contributes to a multitude of changes within ASM including enhanced airway contractility, proliferation, and fibrosis. Altered intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) regulation or Ca2+ sensitization contributes to airway hyperreactivity. Increased airway wall thickness from ASM proliferation and fibrosis contributes to structural changes seen with asthma. EXPERT OPINION ASM plays a significant role in multiple features of asthma. Increased ASM contractility contributes to hyperresponsiveness, while altered ASM proliferation and extracellular matrix production promote airway remodeling both influenced by inflammation of asthma and conversely even influencing the local inflammatory milieu. While standard therapies such as corticosteroids or biologics target inflammation, cytokines, or their receptors to alleviate asthma symptoms, these approaches do not address the underlying contribution of ASM to hyperresponsiveness and particularly remodeling. Therefore, novel therapies for asthma need to target abnormal contractility mechanisms in ASM and/or the contribution of ASM to remodeling, particularly in asthmatics resistant to current therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latifa Khalfaoui
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Christina M Pabelick
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Physiology & Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Varricchi G, Ferri S, Pepys J, Poto R, Spadaro G, Nappi E, Paoletti G, Virchow JC, Heffler E, Canonica WG. Biologics and airway remodeling in severe asthma. Allergy 2022; 77:3538-3552. [PMID: 35950646 PMCID: PMC10087445 DOI: 10.1111/all.15473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease resulting in airflow obstruction, which in part can become irreversible to conventional therapies, defining the concept of airway remodeling. The introduction of biologics in severe asthma has led in some patients to the complete normalization of previously considered irreversible airflow obstruction. This highlights the need to distinguish a "fixed" airflow obstruction due to structural changes unresponsive to current therapies, from a "reversible" one as demonstrated by lung function normalization during biological therapies not previously obtained even with high-dose systemic glucocorticoids. The mechanisms by which exposure to environmental factors initiates the inflammatory responses that trigger airway remodeling are still incompletely understood. Alarmins represent epithelial-derived cytokines that initiate immunologic events leading to inflammatory airway remodeling. Biological therapies can improve airflow obstruction by addressing these airway inflammatory changes. In addition, biologics might prevent and possibly even revert "fixed" remodeling due to structural changes. Hence, it appears clinically important to separate the therapeutic effects (early and late) of biologics as a new paradigm to evaluate the effects of these drugs and future treatments on airway remodeling in severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilda Varricchi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy.,Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Sebastian Ferri
- Personalized Medicine Asthma and Allergy Unit - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Jack Pepys
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Remo Poto
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spadaro
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Nappi
- Personalized Medicine Asthma and Allergy Unit - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Paoletti
- Personalized Medicine Asthma and Allergy Unit - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Heffler
- Personalized Medicine Asthma and Allergy Unit - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Walter G Canonica
- Personalized Medicine Asthma and Allergy Unit - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
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Liu G, Philp AM, Corte T, Travis MA, Schilter H, Hansbro NG, Burns CJ, Eapen MS, Sohal SS, Burgess JK, Hansbro PM. Therapeutic targets in lung tissue remodelling and fibrosis. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 225:107839. [PMID: 33774068 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Structural changes involving tissue remodelling and fibrosis are major features of many pulmonary diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins is a key factor in the development of tissue remodelling that results in symptoms and impaired lung function in these diseases. Tissue remodelling in the lungs is complex and differs between compartments. Some pathways are common but tissue remodelling around the airways and in the parenchyma have different morphologies. Hence it is critical to evaluate both common fibrotic pathways and those that are specific to different compartments; thereby expanding the understanding of the pathogenesis of fibrosis and remodelling in the airways and parenchyma in asthma, COPD and IPF with a view to developing therapeutic strategies for each. Here we review the current understanding of remodelling features and underlying mechanisms in these major respiratory diseases. The differences and similarities of remodelling are used to highlight potential common therapeutic targets and strategies. One central pathway in remodelling processes involves transforming growth factor (TGF)-β induced fibroblast activation and myofibroblast differentiation that increases ECM production. The current treatments and clinical trials targeting remodelling are described, as well as potential future directions. These endeavours are indicative of the renewed effort and optimism for drug discovery targeting tissue remodelling and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Liu
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ashleigh M Philp
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; St Vincent's Medical School, UNSW Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tamera Corte
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark A Travis
- The Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre and Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Heidi Schilter
- Pharmaxis Ltd, 20 Rodborough Road, Frenchs Forest, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole G Hansbro
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chris J Burns
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Mathew S Eapen
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Sukhwinder S Sohal
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Janette K Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands; Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Discipline of Pharmacology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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van den Bosch WB, James AL, Tiddens HAWM. Structure and function of small airways in asthma patients revisited. Eur Respir Rev 2021; 30:30/159/200186. [PMID: 33472958 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0186-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Small airways (<2 mm in diameter) are probably involved across almost all asthma severities and they show proportionally more structural and functional abnormalities with increasing asthma severity. The structural and functional alterations of the epithelium, extracellular matrix and airway smooth muscle in small airways of people with asthma have been described over many years using in vitro studies, animal models or imaging and modelling methods. The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of these observations and to outline several potential pathophysiological mechanisms regarding the role of small airways in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wytse B van den Bosch
- Dept of Paediatric Pulmonology and Allergology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Dept of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alan L James
- Dept of Pulmonary Physiology and Sleep Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Harm A W M Tiddens
- Dept of Paediatric Pulmonology and Allergology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Dept of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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8
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Wilson SJ, Ward JA, Pickett HM, Baldi S, Sousa AR, Sterk PJ, Chung KF, Djukanovic R, Dahlen B, Billing B, Shaw D, Krug N, Sandstrӧm T, Brightling C, Howarth PH. Airway Elastin is increased in severe asthma and relates to proximal wall area: histological and computed tomography findings from the U-BIOPRED severe asthma study. Clin Exp Allergy 2021; 51:296-304. [PMID: 33342006 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Airway remodelling, which may include goblet cell hyperplasia / hypertrophy, changes in epithelial integrity, accumulation of extracellular matrix components, smooth muscle hypertrophy and thickening of the lamina reticularis, is a feature of severe asthma and contributes to the clinical phenotype. OBJECTIVE Within the U-BIOPRED severe asthma study, we have assessed histological elements of airway remodelling and their relationship to computed tomography (CT) measures of proximal airway dimensions. METHODS Bronchial biopsies were collected from two severe asthma groups, one non-smoker (SAn, n = 28) and one current/ex-smoker (SAs/ex, n = 13), and a mild-moderate asthma group (MMA, n = 28) classified and treated according to GINA guidelines, plus a healthy control group (HC, n = 33). Movat's pentachrome technique was used to identify mucin, elastin and total collagen in these biopsies. The number of goblet cells (mucin+) was counted as a percentage of the total number of epithelial cells and the percentage mucin epithelial area measured. The percentage area of elastic fibres and total collagen within the submucosa was also measured, and the morphology of the elastic fibres classified. Participants in the asthma groups also had a CT scan to assess large airway morphometry. RESULTS The submucosal tissue elastin percentage was higher in both severe asthma groups (16.1% SAn, 18.9% SAs/ex) compared with the HC (9.7%) but did not differ between asthma groups. There was a positive relationship between elastin and airway wall area measured by CT (n = 18-20, rho=0.544, p = 0.024), which also related to an increase in elastic fibres with a thickened lamellar morphological appearance. Mucin epithelial area and total collagen were not different between the four groups. Due to small numbers of suitable CT scans, it was not feasible to compare airway morphometry between the asthma groups. CONCLUSION These findings identify a link between extent of elastin deposition and airway wall thickening in severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J Wilson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jonathan A Ward
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Helen M Pickett
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Simonetta Baldi
- Department of Respiratory Science, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Ana R Sousa
- Respiratory Therapy Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, UK
| | - Peter J Sterk
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Barbro Dahlen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, The Centre for Allergy Research, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Billing
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, The Centre for Allergy Research, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dominick Shaw
- Nottingham Respiratory Research, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Norbert Krug
- Fraunhofer Institute of Toxicology & Experimental Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Sandstrӧm
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Umea University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Peter H Howarth
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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9
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Franova S, Molitorisova M, Kazimierova I, Joskova M, Forsberg CIN, Novakova E, Sutovska M. Pharmacodynamic evaluation of dihydroxyflavone derivate chrysin in a guinea pig model of allergic asthma. J Pharm Pharmacol 2020; 73:233-240. [PMID: 33793800 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This experimental study evaluated the anti-asthmatic capacity of the dihydroxyflavone chrysin in the settings of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic inflammation. METHODS The parameters that were used to assess the anti-asthmatic activity of chrysin included the specific airway resistance to histamine, the sensitivity to a chemically induced cough and the activity of chrysin on the ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of the respiratory epithelium. The anti-inflammatory potential was confirmed by the measurement of cytokine concentrations Th2 (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13), Th1 (Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor [GM-CSF], INF-γ and IL-12), leucocyte count in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and growth factor TBF-β1 in lung homogenate. KEY FINDINGS Chronic administration of chrysin (30 mg/kg/day for 21 days) to OVA-sensitised guinea pigs showed bronchodilatory activity comparable to that of long-acting β 2 receptors agonist (LABA) salmeterol. Chrysin revealed antitussive efficiency but was not able to abolish the negative effect of OVA on CBF. Chrysin managed to ameliorate the progression of chronic airway inflammation by decreasing the count of eosinophils, lymphocytes and basophils, IL-5, L-13, GM-CSF, INF-γ in BALF, and TGF-β1 in lung homogenate. CONCLUSIONS The acquired results support the complex anti-asthmatic profile of chrysin. The flavone may represent an attractive compound for further studies concerning the prevention or treatment of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sona Franova
- Department of Pharmacology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Miroslava Molitorisova
- Department of Pharmacology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ivana Kazimierova
- Biomedical Center Martin Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Marta Joskova
- Department of Pharmacology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Christina Imnoy Noss Forsberg
- Department of Pharmacology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Elena Novakova
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Martina Sutovska
- Department of Pharmacology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
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10
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Abstract
This article will discuss in detail the pathophysiology of asthma from the point of view of lung mechanics. In particular, we will explain how asthma is more than just airflow limitation resulting from airway narrowing but in fact involves multiple consequences of airway narrowing, including ventilation heterogeneity, airway closure, and airway hyperresponsiveness. In addition, the relationship between the airway and surrounding lung parenchyma is thought to be critically important in asthma, especially as related to the response to deep inspiration. Furthermore, dynamic changes in lung mechanics over time may yield important information about asthma stability, as well as potentially provide a window into future disease control. All of these features of mechanical properties of the lung in asthma will be explained by providing evidence from multiple investigative methods, including not only traditional pulmonary function testing but also more sophisticated techniques such as forced oscillation, multiple breath nitrogen washout, and different imaging modalities. Throughout the article, we will link the lung mechanical features of asthma to clinical manifestations of asthma symptoms, severity, and control. © 2020 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 10:975-1007, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Kaminsky
- University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - David G Chapman
- University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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11
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Ambhore NS, Kalidhindi RSR, Loganathan J, Sathish V. Role of Differential Estrogen Receptor Activation in Airway Hyperreactivity and Remodeling in a Murine Model of Asthma. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2020; 61:469-480. [PMID: 30958966 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2018-0321oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is a characteristic feature of asthma. Epidemiological studies have confirmed that the severity of asthma is greater in women, suggesting a critical role of female sex steroid hormones (especially estrogen). Very few in vivo studies have examined the role of sex steroid hormones in asthma, and the sequence of events that occur through differential activation of estrogen receptors (ERs) remains to be determined in asthmatic airways. Our recent in vitro findings indicated that ERβ had increased expression in asthmatic airway smooth muscle (ASM), and that its activation by an ERβ-specific agonist downregulated airway remodeling. In this study, we translated the in vitro findings to a murine asthma model and examined the differential role of ER activation in modulating lung mechanics. C57BL/6J male, female, and ovariectomized mice were exposed to mixed allergen (MA) and subcutaneously implanted with sustained-release pellets of placebo, an ERα agonist (4,4',4″-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol [PPT]), and/or an ERβ agonist (WAY-200070). We then evaluated the effects of these treatments on airway mechanics, biochemical, molecular, and histological parameters. Mice exposed to MA showed a significant increase in airway resistance, elastance, and tissue damping, and a decrease in compliance; pronounced effects were observed in females. Compared with PPT, WAY treatment significantly reversed the MA-induced changes. The increased mRNA/protein expression of ERα, ERβ, and remodeling genes observed in MA-treated mice was significantly reversed in WAY-treated mice. This novel study indicates that activation of ERβ signaling downregulates AHR and airway remodeling, and is a promising target in the development of treatments for asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilesh Sudhakar Ambhore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota; and
| | | | - Jagadish Loganathan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota; and
| | - Venkatachalem Sathish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota; and.,Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine and.,Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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12
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Kalidhindi RSR, Ambhore NS, Bhallamudi S, Loganathan J, Sathish V. Role of Estrogen Receptors α and β in a Murine Model of Asthma: Exacerbated Airway Hyperresponsiveness and Remodeling in ERβ Knockout Mice. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1499. [PMID: 32116656 PMCID: PMC7010956 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological data suggests increased prevalence of asthma in females than males, suggesting a plausible role for sex-steroids, especially estrogen in the lungs. Estrogen primarily acts through estrogen-receptors (ERα and ERβ), which play a differential role in asthma. Our previous studies demonstrated increased expression of ERβ in asthmatic human airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells and its activation diminished ASM proliferation in vitro and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in vivo in a mouse (wild-type, WT) model of asthma. In this study, we evaluated the receptor specific effect of circulating endogenous estrogen in regulating AHR and remodeling using ERα and ERβ knockout (KO) mice. C57BL/6J WT, ERα KO, and ERβ KO mice were challenged intranasally with a mixed-allergen (MA) or PBS. Lung function was measured using flexiVent followed by collection of broncho-alveolar lavage fluid for differential leukocyte count (DLC), histology using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Sirius red-fast green (SRFG) and detecting αsmooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin and vimentin expression using immunofluorescence (IF). Resistance (Rrs), elastance (Ers), tissue-damping (G) and tissue-elasticity (H) were significantly increased, whereas compliance (Crs) was significantly decreased in WT, ERα KO, and ERβ KO mice (males and females) challenged with MA compared to PBS. Interestingly, ERβ KO mice showed declined lung function compared to ERα KO and WT mice at baseline. MA induced AHR, remodeling and immune-cell infiltration was more prominent in females compared to males across all populations, while ERβ KO females showed maximum AHR and DLC, except for neutrophil count. Histology using H&E suggests increased smooth muscle mass in airways with recruitment of inflammatory cells, while SRFG staining showed increased collagen deposition in MA challenged ERβ KO mice compared to ERα KO and WT mice (males and females), with pronounced effects in ERβ KO females. Furthermore, IF studies showed increased expression of α-SMA, fibronectin and vimentin in MA challenged populations compared to PBS, with prominent changes in ERβ KO females. This novel study indicates ERβ plays a pivotal role in airway remodeling and AHR and understanding the mechanisms involved might help to surface it out as a potential target to treat asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Venkatachalem Sathish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
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13
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Prabhala P, Wright DB, Robbe P, Bitter C, Pera T, Ten Hacken NHT, van den Berge M, Timens W, Meurs H, Dekkers BGJ. Laminin α4 contributes to airway remodeling and inflammation in asthma. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2019; 317:L768-L777. [PMID: 31553662 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00222.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway inflammation and remodeling are characteristic features of asthma, with both contributing to airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung function limitation. Airway smooth muscle (ASM) accumulation and extracellular matrix deposition are characteristic features of airway remodeling, which may contribute to persistent AHR. Laminins containing the α2-chain contribute to characteristics of ASM remodeling in vitro and AHR in animal models of asthma. The role of other laminin chains, including the laminin α4 and α5 chains, which contribute to leukocyte migration in other diseases, is currently unknown. The aim of the current study was to investigate the role of these laminin chains in ASM function and in AHR, remodeling, and inflammation in asthma. Expression of both laminin α4 and α5 was observed in the human and mouse ASM bundle. In vitro, laminin α4 was found to promote a pro-proliferative, pro-contractile, and pro-fibrotic ASM cell phenotype. In line with this, treatment with laminin α4 and α5 function-blocking antibodies reduced allergen-induced increases in ASM mass in a mouse model of allergen-induced asthma. Moreover, eosinophilic inflammation was reduced by the laminin α4 function-blocking antibody as well. Using airway biopsies from healthy subjects and asthmatic patients, we found inverse correlations between ASM α4-chain expression and lung function and AHR, whereas eosinophil numbers correlated positively with expression of laminin α4 in the ASM bundle. This study, for the first time, indicates a prominent role for laminin α4 in ASM function and in inflammation, AHR, and remodeling in asthma, whereas the role of laminin α5 is more subtle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavan Prabhala
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - David B Wright
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Patricia Robbe
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Catrin Bitter
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tonio Pera
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nick H T Ten Hacken
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van den Berge
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wim Timens
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Herman Meurs
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bart G J Dekkers
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands
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14
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Ito JT, Lourenço JD, Righetti RF, Tibério IFLC, Prado CM, Lopes FDTQS. Extracellular Matrix Component Remodeling in Respiratory Diseases: What Has Been Found in Clinical and Experimental Studies? Cells 2019; 8:cells8040342. [PMID: 30979017 PMCID: PMC6523091 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the lungs are associated with the progression of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Experimental and clinical studies have revealed that structural changes in ECM components occur under chronic inflammatory conditions, and these changes are associated with impaired lung function. In bronchial asthma, elastic and collagen fiber remodeling, mostly in the airway walls, is associated with an increase in mucus secretion, leading to airway hyperreactivity. In COPD, changes in collagen subtypes I and III and elastin, interfere with the mechanical properties of the lungs, and are believed to play a pivotal role in decreased lung elasticity, during emphysema progression. In ARDS, interstitial edema is often accompanied by excessive deposition of fibronectin and collagen subtypes I and III, which can lead to respiratory failure in the intensive care unit. This review uses experimental models and human studies to describe how inflammatory conditions and ECM remodeling contribute to the loss of lung function in these respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana T Ito
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics/LIM-20, School of Medicine of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil.
| | - Juliana D Lourenço
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics/LIM-20, School of Medicine of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil.
| | - Renato F Righetti
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics/LIM-20, School of Medicine of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil.
- Rehabilitation service, Sírio-Libanês Hospital, Sao Paulo 01308-050, Brazil.
| | - Iolanda F L C Tibério
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics/LIM-20, School of Medicine of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil.
| | - Carla M Prado
- Department of Bioscience, Laboratory of Studies in Pulmonary Inflammation, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Santos 11015-020, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda D T Q S Lopes
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics/LIM-20, School of Medicine of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil.
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15
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d'Hooghe JNS, Goorsenberg AWM, Ten Hacken NHT, Weersink EJM, Roelofs JJTH, Mauad T, Shah PL, Annema JT, Bonta PI. Airway smooth muscle reduction after bronchial thermoplasty in severe asthma correlates with FEV 1. Clin Exp Allergy 2019; 49:541-544. [PMID: 30723963 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia N S d'Hooghe
- Department of Pulmonology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annika W M Goorsenberg
- Department of Pulmonology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nick H T Ten Hacken
- Department of Pulmonology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Els J M Weersink
- Department of Pulmonology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joris J T H Roelofs
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thais Mauad
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo - School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pallav L Shah
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK.,National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK.,Department of Pulmonology, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jouke T Annema
- Department of Pulmonology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter I Bonta
- Department of Pulmonology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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Abstract
Objective: While the effects of obesity on asthma are unclear, an increased body mass index (BMI) is known to enhance the symptoms and severity of asthma and to impair asthma control. The present study evaluates the effects of nutritional habits and obesity on pulmonary function and asthma control in individuals with asthma. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 60 obese respondents and 60 respondents with normal body weight, who were referred to pulmonology clinics over a period of 2 months. The anthropometric measurements and macro–micro nutrient consumption records of the patients in both groups were obtained, and the two groups were compared in terms of pulmonary function and asthma control test (ACT) scores. Results: The mean age of the normal weight and obese respondents was 39.55 ± 11.0 and 45.1 ± 10.3 years, respectively. The ACT scores of the respondents decreased significantly with increasing BMI, waist circumference (WC), and waist–hip ratio (WHR) measurements (P < 0.05). The obese respondents had a lower mean forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), midexpiratory flow (MEF) between 25% and 75% of the maximal expiration (MEF25–75), MEF75, MEF50, MEF25, and FEV1/FVC values when compared to the respondents with normal weight (P < 0.05). The total energy and carbohydrate intake was higher in the obese respondents, while their total protein intake was lower when compared to the normal weight respondents (P < 0.05), and a significant positive correlation was found between the omega 3 intake and ACT scores of the respondents (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Pulmonary functions and ACT scores decrease with increasing BMI, WC, and WHR. Obese respondents with asthma should be referred to diet clinics to improve their asthma symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ümüş Özbey
- Department of Nutrition and Diet, Health Science Faculty, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Uçar Ucar
- Department of Nutrition and Diet, Health Science Faculty, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aliye Gamze Calis
- Department of Chest Disease, Medicine Faculty, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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17
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Burgess JK, Ketheson A, Faiz A, Limbert Rempel KA, Oliver BG, Ward JPT, Halayko AJ. Phenotype and Functional Features of Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Immortalized Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cells from Asthmatic and Non-Asthmatic Donors. Sci Rep 2018; 8:805. [PMID: 29339735 PMCID: PMC5770384 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-18429-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is an obstructive respiratory disease characterised by chronic inflammation with airway hyperresponsiveness. In asthmatic airways, there is an increase in airway smooth muscle (ASM) cell bulk, which differs from non-asthmatic ASM in characteristics. This study aimed to assess the usefulness of hTERT immortalisation of human ASM cells as a research tool. Specifically we compared proliferative capacity, inflammatory mediator release and extracellular matrix (ECM) production in hTERT immortalised and parent primary ASM cells from asthmatic and non-asthmatic donors. Our studies revealed no significant differences in proliferation, IL-6 and eotaxin-1 production, or CTGF synthesis between donor-matched parent and hTERT immortalised ASM cell lines. However, deposition of ECM proteins fibronectin and fibulin-1 was significantly lower in immortalised ASM cells compared to corresponding primary cells. Notably, previously reported differences in proliferation and inflammatory mediator release between asthmatic and non-asthmatic ASM cells were retained, but excessive ECM protein deposition in asthmatic ASM cells was lost in hTERT ASM cells. This study shows that hTERT immortalised ASM cells mirror primary ASM cells in proliferation and inflammatory profile characteristics. Moreover, we demonstrate both strengths and weaknesses of this immortalised cell model as a representation of primary ASM cells for future asthma pathophysiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands. .,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, KOLFF Institute, Groningen, The Netherlands. .,Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Glebe, NSW, Australia. .,Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - A Ketheson
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Glebe, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - A Faiz
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonology, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - K A Limbert Rempel
- University of Manitoba and Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - B G Oliver
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Glebe, NSW, Australia.,School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - A J Halayko
- University of Manitoba and Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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18
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Qiu C, Liu W, Shi F, Fen M, Ren L, Qi H. Silencing of β1 integrin regulates airway remodeling by regulating the transcription of SOCE‑associated genes in asthmatic mice. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:2645-2651. [PMID: 28656279 PMCID: PMC5547928 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of asthma is increasing globally; however, current treatments are only able to cure a certain proportion of patients. There is an urgent need to develop novel therapies. β1 integrin serves a role in the pathophysiology of asthma through the development of airway remodeling. The aim of the present study was to investigate silencing of the β1 integrin gene in pre-clinical models of allergic asthma. BALB/c mice were sensitized with ovalbumin through intraperitoneal injection and repeated aerosolized ovalbumin. A short hairpin RNA of the β1 integrin gene was designed and transfected into mouse models of asthma in vivo, in order to evaluate whether silencing of the β1 integrin gene affects airway smooth muscle cell proliferation and inflammation by regulating the mRNA expression of store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE)-associated genes. Silencing the β1 integrin gene may downregulate β1 integrin mRNA while not statistically decreasing α-smooth muscle actin gene expression and airway smooth muscle thickness. β1 integrin silencing was able to downregulate the transcription of SOCE-associated genes to normal levels, including calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1 and short transient receptor potential channel member 1, but not stromal interaction molecule 1, in asthma. Silencing of the β1 integrin gene additionally maintained nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 gene expression, and inflammatory cytokines interleukin-4 and interferon-γ at normal levels. The results of the present study provide evidence to suggest that silencing of the β1 integrin gene may be of therapeutic benefit for patients with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Qiu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Clinical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001, P.R. China
| | - Wenwen Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Clinical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001, P.R. China
| | - Fei Shi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Clinical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001, P.R. China
| | - Mengjie Fen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Clinical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001, P.R. China
| | - Lili Ren
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001, P.R. China
| | - Hui Qi
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518001, P.R. China
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19
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Ingram JL, Slade D, Church TD, Francisco D, Heck K, Sigmon RW, Ghio M, Murillo A, Firszt R, Lugogo NL, Que L, Sunday ME, Kraft M. Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases-1 and -2 in Interleukin-13-Suppressed Elastin in Airway Fibroblasts in Asthma. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2016; 54:41-50. [PMID: 26074138 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2014-0290oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Elastin synthesis and degradation in the airway and lung parenchyma contribute to airway mechanics, including airway patency and elastic recoil. IL-13 mediates many features of asthma pathobiology, including airway remodeling, but the effects of IL-13 on elastin architecture in the airway wall are not known. We hypothesized that IL-13 modulates elastin expression in airway fibroblasts from subjects with allergic asthma. Twenty-five subjects with mild asthma (FEV1, 89 ± 3% predicted) and 30 normal control subjects (FEV1, 102 ± 2% predicted) underwent bronchoscopy with endobronchial biopsy. Elastic fibers were visualized in airway biopsy specimens using Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin elastic stain. Airway fibroblasts were exposed to IL-13; a pan-matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor (GM6001); specific inhibitors to MMP-1, -2, -3, and -8; and combinations of IL-13 with MMP inhibitors in separate conditions in serum-free media for 48 hours. Elastin (ELN) expression as well as MMP secretion and activity were quantified. Results of this study show that elastic fiber staining of airway biopsy tissue was significantly associated with methacholine PC20 (i.e., the provocative concentration of methacholine resulting in a 20% fall in FEV1 levels) in patients with asthma. IL-13 significantly suppressed ELN expression in asthmatic airway fibroblasts as compared with normal control fibroblasts. The effect of IL-13 on ELN expression was significantly correlated with postbronchodilator FEV1/FVC in patients with asthma. MMP inhibition significantly stimulated ELN expression in patients with asthma as compared with normal control subjects. Specific inhibition of MMP-1 and MMP-2, but not MMP-3 or MMP-8, reversed the IL-13-induced suppression of ELN expression. In asthma, MMP-1 and MMP-2 mediate IL-13-induced suppression of ELN expression in airway fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Karissa Heck
- 3 Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mary E Sunday
- Departments of 1 Medicine.,3 Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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20
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Chapman DG, Irvin CG. Mechanisms of airway hyper-responsiveness in asthma: the past, present and yet to come. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 45:706-19. [PMID: 25651937 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) has long been considered a cardinal feature of asthma. The development of the measurement of AHR 40 years ago initiated many important contributions to our understanding of asthma and other airway diseases. However, our understanding of AHR in asthma remains complicated by the multitude of potential underlying mechanisms which in reality are likely to have different contributions amongst individual patients. Therefore, the present review will discuss the current state of understanding of the major mechanisms proposed to contribute to AHR and highlight the way in which AHR testing is beginning to highlight distinct abnormalities associated with clinically relevant patient populations. In doing so we aim to provide a foundation by which future research can begin to ascribe certain mechanisms to specific patterns of bronchoconstriction and subsequently match phenotypes of bronchoconstriction with clinical phenotypes. We believe that this approach is not only within our grasp but will lead to improved mechanistic understanding of asthma phenotypes and we hoped to better inform the development of phenotype-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Chapman
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
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21
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Gillissen A, Paparoupa M. Inflammation and infections in asthma. THE CLINICAL RESPIRATORY JOURNAL 2015; 9:257-69. [PMID: 24725460 PMCID: PMC7162380 DOI: 10.1111/crj.12135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 04/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is driven by an inflammatory response against normally harmless environmental inorganic and organic compounds in the respiratory tract. Immune responses to airborne pathogens such as viruses and bacteria may reduce the allergic responses but are also known to trigger asthma attacks and eventually lead to severe disease condition. OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of respiratory pathogens concerning the induction or protection against acute or chronic asthma manifestations. METHODS We included 131 articles for the final review according to their relevance with the subject. RESULTS There is apparently contradictory interaction of respiratory germs in the airways of asthmatics which may be protective on one angle but deleterious on the other. CONCLUSION The relationship between inflammation and remodeling and the pathogenic role of viral and bacterial infection in the airways of asthmatic patients is still highly debatable and incompletely understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Gillissen
- Department of Pulmonary MedicineGeneral Hospital KasselKasselGermany
| | - Maria Paparoupa
- Department of Pulmonary MedicineGeneral Hospital KasselKasselGermany
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22
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Abstract
Asthma remains a major health problem with significant morbidity, mortality and economic costs. In asthma, airway remodelling, which refers to all the microscopic structural changes seen in the airway tissue, has been recognised for many decades and remains one of the defining characteristics of the disease; however, it is still poorly understood. The detrimental pathophysiological consequences of some features of remodelling, like increased airway smooth muscle mass and subepithelial fibrosis, are well documented. However, whether targeting these by therapy would be beneficial is unknown. Although the prevailing thinking is that remodelling is an abnormal response to persistent airway inflammation, recent evidence, especially from studies of remodelling in asthmatic children, suggests that the two processes occur in parallel. The effects of asthma therapy on airway remodelling have not been studied extensively due to the challenges of obtaining airway tissue in the context of clinical trials. Corticosteroids remain the cornerstone of asthma therapy, and their effects on remodelling have been better studied than other drugs. Bronchial thermoplasty is the only asthma therapy to primarily target remodelling, although how it results in the apparent clinical benefits seen is not exactly clear. In this article we discuss the mechanisms of airway remodelling in asthma and review the effects of conventional and novel asthma therapies on the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Berair
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute for Lung Health, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE3 9QP, UK
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23
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Yick CY, Zwinderman AH, Kunst PW, Grünberg K, Mauad T, Chowdhury S, Bel EH, Baas F, Lutter R, Sterk PJ. Gene expression profiling of laser microdissected airway smooth muscle tissue in asthma and atopy. Allergy 2014; 69:1233-40. [PMID: 24888725 DOI: 10.1111/all.12452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma and atopy share common characteristics including type 2 helper-T-cell-mediated inflammation. However, only asthma is associated with variable airways obstruction. The complex cellular and molecular pathways distinguishing asthma and atopy can now be captured by transcriptomic analysis (RNA-Seq). We hypothesized that the transcriptomic profile of airway smooth muscle (ASM) distinguishes atopic asthma from atopic healthy controls. First, we compared the ASM transcriptomic profiles of endobronchial biopsies between glucocorticoid-free, atopic asthma patients, and atopic and nonatopic healthy controls. Second, we investigated the association between ASM transcriptomic profiles and airway function. METHODS Twelve asthma patients and 12 control subjects (six atopic, six nonatopic) underwent bronchoscopy. RNA of laser-dissected ASM from 96 bronchial biopsy specimens was sequenced with Roche GS FLX. Gene networks were identified using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. RNA-Seq reads were assumed to follow a negative binomial distribution. With the current sample size, the estimated false discovery rate was approximately 1%. RESULTS One hundred and seventy four ASM genes were differentially expressed between asthma patients and atopic controls, 108 between asthma patients and nonatopic controls, and 135 between atopic and nonatopic controls. A set of eight genes discriminated asthma patients from nonasthmatic controls, irrespective of atopy. Four of these genes (RPTOR, VANGL1, FAM129A, LEPREL1) were associated with airway hyper-responsiveness (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Airway smooth muscle from asthma patients can be distinguished from that of atopic and nonatopic control subjects by a specific gene expression profile, which is associated with airway hyper-responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Y. Yick
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - A. H. Zwinderman
- Department of Epidemiology and Bioinformatics; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - P. W. Kunst
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Admiraal De Ruyter Hospital; Goes The Netherlands
| | - K. Grünberg
- Department of Pathology; VU Medical Center; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| | - T. Mauad
- Department of Pathology; São Paulo University Medical School (USP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - S. Chowdhury
- Department of Experimental Immunology; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - E. H. Bel
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - F. Baas
- Department of Genome Analysis; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| | - R. Lutter
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - P. J. Sterk
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim is to review recent literature up to July 2013 concerning the effect of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) on asthma. AIT, effective in combined allergic rhinitis and asthma, was previously described as a convenient approach able to improve clinical outcomes and reduce bronchial hyperresponsiveness. In addition, long-term and preventive effects on the onset of new sensitizations and progression from allergic rhinitis to asthma have been shown. RECENT FINDINGS Recent investigations, mainly based on observational or small open trials, confirmed previous findings, showing improvement in asthma control, symptoms and medication usage and steroid-sparing effects, sometimes inconsistent with changes in lung function. Some meta-analyses support the clinical benefit on adult and paediatric asthma. Only few trials, however, were specifically designed to explore asthma endpoints. SUMMARY Clinical studies primarily have focused on AIT, and research on asthma endpoints is scarce; however, the evidence of beneficial effect of AIT for the treatment of adults and children affected by allergic rhinitis with or without asthma suggests that this treatment can favourably affect asthma. In children, sublingual AIT has been more extensively investigated than injective. Confirmatory, adequately powered trials are needed to reinforce the evidence of efficacy for individual AIT products. The main drawback in using injective AIT for asthma is the risk of serious adverse reactions and uncontrolled asthma. The sublingual route is better tolerated and does not appear inferior. As standard controller pharmacotherapy seems unable to affect the natural course of asthma, the potentially disease-modifying effect of AIT represents an appealing perspective that requires further investigation.
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Bartolák-Suki E, LaPrad AS, Harvey BC, Suki B, Lutchen KR. Tidal stretches differently regulate the contractile and cytoskeletal elements in intact airways. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94828. [PMID: 24740101 PMCID: PMC3989249 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent reports suggest that tidal stretches do not cause significant and sustainable dilation of constricted intact airways ex vivo. To better understand the underlying mechanisms, we aimed to map the physiological stretch-induced molecular changes related to cytoskeletal (CSK) structure and contractile force generation through integrin receptors. Using ultrasound, we measured airway constriction in isolated intact airways during 90 minutes of static transmural pressure (Ptm) of 7.5 cmH2O or dynamic variations between Ptm of 5 and 10 cmH20 mimicking breathing. Integrin and focal adhesion kinase activity increased during Ptm oscillations which was further amplified during constriction. While Ptm oscillations reduced β-actin and F-actin formation implying lower CSK stiffness, it did not affect tubulin. However, constriction was amplified when the microtubule structure was disassembled. Without constriction, α-smooth muscle actin (ASMA) level was higher and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain 2 was lower during Ptm oscillations. Alternatively, during constriction, overall molecular motor activity was enhanced by Ptm oscillations, but ASMA level became lower. Thus, ASMA and motor protein levels change in opposite directions due to stretch and contraction maintaining similar airway constriction levels during static and dynamic Ptm. We conclude that physiological Ptm variations affect cellular processes in intact airways with constriction determined by the balance among contractile and CSK molecules and structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erzsébet Bartolák-Suki
- Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Adam S. LaPrad
- Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Brian C. Harvey
- Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Béla Suki
- Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Kenneth R. Lutchen
- Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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26
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Balhara J, Redhu NS, Shan L, Gounni AS. IgE regulates the expression of smMLCK in human airway smooth muscle cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93946. [PMID: 24722483 PMCID: PMC3983085 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that enhanced accumulation of contractile proteins such as smooth muscle myosin light chain kinase (smMLCK) plays a major role in human airway smooth muscle cells (HASM) cell hypercontractility and hypertrophy. Furthermore, serum IgE levels play an important role in smooth muscle hyperreactivity. However, the effect of IgE on smMLCK expression has not been investigated. In this study, we demonstrate that IgE increases the expression of smMLCK at mRNA and protein levels. This effect was inhibited significantly with neutralizing abs directed against FcεRI but not with anti-FcεRII/CD23. Furthermore, Syk knock down and pharmacological inhibition of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) (ERK1/2, p38, and JNK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) significantly diminished the IgE-mediated upregulation of smMLCK expression in HASM cells. Taken together, our data suggest a role of IgE in regulating smMLCK in HASM cells. Therefore, targeting the FcεRI activation on HASM cells may offer a novel approach in controlling the bronchomotor tone in allergic asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Balhara
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Naresh Singh Redhu
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Lianyu Shan
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Abdelilah S. Gounni
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba
- * E-mail:
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27
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Regal JF, Lawrence BP, Johnson AC, Lojovich SJ, O’Reilly MA. Neonatal oxygen exposure alters airway hyper-responsiveness but not the response to allergen challenge in adult mice. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2014; 25:180-6. [PMID: 24520985 PMCID: PMC3976144 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants born prematurely are often treated with supplemental oxygen, which can increase their risk for airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR), asthma, reduced lung function, and altered responses to respiratory viral infections later in childhood. Likewise, exposure of newborn mice to hyperoxia alters baseline pulmonary mechanics and the host response to influenza A virus infection in adult mice. Here, we use this mouse model to test the hypothesis that neonatal hyperoxia also promotes AHR and exacerbated allergen-induced symptoms in adult mice. METHODS Baseline lung mechanics and AHR measured by methacholine provocation were assessed in adult male and female mice exposed to room air or 100% oxygen (hyperoxia) between post-natal days 0-4. AHR and lung inflammation were evaluated after adult female mice were sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) plus alum and challenged with aerosolized OVA. RESULTS Baseline lung compliance increased and resistance decreased in adult female, but not male, mice exposed to neonatal hyperoxia compared with siblings exposed to room air. Neonatal hyperoxia significantly enhanced methacholine-induced AHR in female mice, but did not affect allergen-induced AHR to methacholine or lung inflammation. CONCLUSION Increased incidence of AHR and asthma is reported in children born prematurely and exposed to supplemental oxygen. Our findings in adult female mice exposed to hyperoxia as neonates suggest that this AHR reported in children born prematurely may reflect non-atopic wheezing due to intrinsic structural changes in airway development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean F. Regal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
| | - B. Paige Lawrence
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Alex C. Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sarah J. Lojovich
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael A. O’Reilly
- Department of Pediatrics School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
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28
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Oenema TA, Mensink G, Smedinga L, Halayko AJ, Zaagsma J, Meurs H, Gosens R, Dekkers BGJ. Cross-talk between transforming growth factor-β₁ and muscarinic M₂ receptors augments airway smooth muscle proliferation. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2013; 49:18-27. [PMID: 23449734 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2012-0261oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β₁ (TGF-β₁) is a central mediator in tissue remodeling processes, including fibrosis and airway smooth muscle (ASM) hyperplasia, as observed in asthma. The mechanisms underlying this response, however, remain unclear because TGF-β₁ exerts only weak mitogenic effects on ASM cells. In this study, we hypothesized that the mitogenic effect of TGF-β₁ on ASM is indirect and requires prolonged exposure to allow for extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. To address this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of acute and prolonged treatment with TGF-β₁, alone and in combination with the muscarinic receptor agonist methacholine, on human ASM cell proliferation. Acutely, TGF-β₁ exerted no mitogenic effect. However, prolonged treatment (for 7 d) with TGF-β₁ increased ASM cell proliferation and potentiated the platelet-derived growth factor-induced mitogenic response. Muscarinic receptor stimulation with methacholine synergistically enhanced the effect of TGF-β₁. Interestingly, the integrin-blocking peptide Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser, as well as integrin α5β1 function-blocking antibodies, inhibited the effects of TGF-β₁ and its combination with methacholine on cell proliferation. Accordingly, prolonged treatment with TGF-β₁ increased fibronectin expression, which was also synergistically enhanced by methacholine. The synergistic effects of methacholine on TGF-β₁-induced proliferation were reduced by the long-acting muscarinic receptor antagonist tiotropium and the M₂ receptor subtype-selective antagonist gallamine, but not the M₃-selective antagonist DAU5884. In line with these findings, the irreversible Gi protein inhibitor pertussis toxin also prevented the potentiation of TGF-β₁-induced proliferation by methacholine. We conclude that prolonged exposure to TGF-β₁ enhances ASM cell proliferation, which is mediated by extracellular matrix-integrin interactions, and which can be enhanced by muscarinic M₂ receptor stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjitske A Oenema
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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29
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Yick CY, Zwinderman AH, Kunst PW, Grünberg K, Mauad T, Fluiter K, Bel EH, Lutter R, Baas F, Sterk PJ. Glucocorticoid-induced changes in gene expression of airway smooth muscle in patients with asthma. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2013; 187:1076-84. [PMID: 23491407 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201210-1886oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Glucocorticoids are the mainstay of asthma therapy. However, it is unclear whether the benefits of glucocorticoids in asthma are merely based on antiinflammatory properties. Glucocorticoids may also alter gene expression of airway smooth muscle (ASM). We hypothesized that the gene expression profile of the ASM layer in endobronchial biopsies of patients with asthma is altered by oral glucocorticoid therapy as compared with placebo. OBJECTIVES First, we investigated the change in ASM transcriptomic profile in endobronchial biopsies after 14 days of oral glucocorticoid therapy. Second, we investigated the association between changes in ASM transcriptomic profile and lung function. METHODS Twelve steroid-free patients with atopic asthma were included in this double-blind intervention study. Endobronchial biopsies were taken before and after 14 days of oral prednisolone (n = 6) or placebo (n = 6). RNA of laser-dissected ASM was sequenced (RNA-Seq) using GS FLX+ (454/Roche). Gene networks were identified by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. RNA-Seq reads were assumed to follow a negative binomial distribution. At the current sample size the estimated false discovery rate was approximately 3%. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Fifteen genes were significantly changed by 14 days of oral prednisolone. Two of these genes (FAM129A, SYNPO2) were associated with airway hyperresponsiveness (provocative concentration of methacholine causing a 20% drop in FEV1: r = -0.740, P < 0.01; r = -0.746, P < 0.01). Pathway analysis revealed three gene networks that were associated with cellular functions including cellular growth, proliferation, and development. CONCLUSIONS Oral prednisolone changes the transcriptomic profile of the ASM layer in asthma. This indicates that in parallel to antiinflammatory properties, glucocorticoids also exert effects on gene expression of ASM, which is correlated with improved airway function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching Yong Yick
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Siddiqui S, Novali M, Tsuchiya K, Hirota N, Geller BJ, McGovern TK, Risse PA, Jo T, Zeroual MA, Martin JG. The modulation of large airway smooth muscle phenotype and effects of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition in the repeatedly allergen-challenged rat. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2013; 304:L853-62. [PMID: 23605002 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00047.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen challenges induce airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) mass in the sensitized rat. Whether the remodeled ASM changes its phenotype is uncertain. We examined, in sensitized Brown Norway rats, the effects of multiple ovalbumin (Ova) challenges on ASM remodeling and phenotype and the role of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in these processes. Rats were sensitized with Ova and challenged three times at 5-day intervals with phosphate-buffered saline or Ova and pretreated with the EGFR inhibitor AG-1478 (5 mg/kg) or its vehicle dimethyl sulfoxide. Ova challenges increased ASM mass in all-sized airways and in large airway mRNA expression of smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (sm-MHC), assessed by laser capture. Myosin light chain kinase and the fast myosin isoform SM-B mRNA expressions were not affected. Ova induced AHR to methacholine, and, based on the constant-phase model, this was largely attributable to the small airways and lung derecruitment at 48 h that recovered by 1 wk. The EGFR ligands amphiregulin and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) were increased in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at 48 h after Ova exposure. AG-1478 inhibited AHR and prevented ASM growth. Epithelial gene expression of EGFR, HB-EGF, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, Gro-α, and transforming growth factor-β was unaffected by Ova challenges. We conclude that EGFR drives remodeling of ASM, which results from repeated Ova challenge. Furthermore, the latter results in excessive small airway and, to a lesser degree, large airway narrowing to methacholine, and large airway gene expression of contractile protein is conserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Siddiqui
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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31
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Toledo AC, Sakoda CPP, Perini A, Pinheiro NM, Magalhães RM, Grecco S, Tibério IFLC, Câmara NO, Martins MA, Lago JHG, Prado CM. Flavonone treatment reverses airway inflammation and remodelling in an asthma murine model. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 168:1736-49. [PMID: 23170811 PMCID: PMC3605879 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2012] [Revised: 10/28/2012] [Accepted: 11/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Asthma is an inflammatory disease that involves airway hyperresponsiveness and remodelling. Flavonoids have been associated to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and may represent a potential therapeutic treatment of asthma. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of the sakuranetin treatment in several aspects of experimental asthma model in mice. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male BALB/c mice received ovalbumin (i.p.) on days 0 and 14, and were challenged with aerolized ovalbumin 1% on days 24, 26 and 28. Ovalbumin-sensitized animals received vehicle (saline and dimethyl sulfoxide, DMSO), sakuranetin (20 mg kg(-1) per mice) or dexamethasone (5 mg kg(-1) per mice) daily beginning from 24th to 29th day. Control group received saline inhalation and nasal drop vehicle. On day 29, we determined the airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammation and remodelling as well as specific IgE antibody. RANTES, IL-5, IL-4, Eotaxin, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ and GMC-SF content in lung homogenate was performed by Bioplex assay, and 8-isoprostane and NF-kB activations were visualized in inflammatory cells by immunohistochemistry. KEY RESULTS We have demonstrated that sakuranetin treatment attenuated airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammation and remodelling; and these effects could be attributed to Th2 pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress reduction as well as control of NF-kB activation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results highlighted the importance of counteracting oxidative stress by flavonoids in this asthma model and suggest sakuranetin as a potential candidate for studies of treatment of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Toledo
- Departments of Medicine, School of Medicine, University de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Singh A, Cohen Freue GV, Oosthuizen JL, Kam SHY, Ruan J, Takhar MK, Gauvreau GM, O'Byrne PM, Fitzgerald JM, Boulet LP, Borchers CH, Tebbutt SJ. Plasma proteomics can discriminate isolated early from dual responses in asthmatic individuals undergoing an allergen inhalation challenge. Proteomics Clin Appl 2013; 6:476-85. [PMID: 22930592 DOI: 10.1002/prca.201200013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This proteomics study was designed to determine the utility of iTRAQ MALDI-TOF/TOF technology to compare plasma samples from carefully phenotyped mild, atopic asthma subjects undergoing allergen inhalation challenge. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Eight adult subjects with mild, allergic asthma (four early responders (ERs) and four dual responders (DRs)) participated in the allergen inhalation challenge. Blood samples were collected prior to and 2 h after the inhalation challenge. Sixteen plasma samples (two per subject), technical replicates, and pooled controls were analyzed using iTRAQ. Technical validation was performed using LC-MRM/MS. Moderated robust regression was used to determine differentially expressed proteins. RESULTS Although this study did not show significant differences between pre- and post-challenge samples, discriminant analysis indicated that certain proteins responded differentially to allergen challenge with respect to responder type. At pre-challenge, fibronectin was significantly elevated in DRs compared to ERs and remained significant in the multiple reaction monitoring validation. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE This proof of principle demonstration has shown that iTRAQ can uncover differences in the human plasma proteome between two endotypes of asthma and merits further application of iTRAQ to larger cohorts of asthma and other respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrit Singh
- James Hogg Research Centre, St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Functional phenotype of airway myocytes from asthmatic airways. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2012; 26:95-104. [PMID: 22921313 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2012.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2012] [Revised: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In asthma, the airway smooth muscle (ASM) cell plays a central role in disease pathogenesis through cellular changes which may impact on its microenvironment and alter ASM response and function. The answer to the long debated question of what makes a 'healthy' ASM cell become 'asthmatic' still remains speculative. What is known of an 'asthmatic' ASM cell, is its ability to contribute to the hallmarks of asthma such as bronchoconstriction (contractile phenotype), inflammation (synthetic phenotype) and ASM hyperplasia (proliferative phenotype). The phenotype of healthy or diseased ASM cells or tissue for the most part is determined by expression of key phenotypic markers. ASM is commonly accepted to have different phenotypes: the contractile (differentiated) state versus the synthetic (dedifferentiated) state (with the capacity to synthesize mediators, proliferate and migrate). There is now accumulating evidence that the synthetic functions of ASM in culture derived from asthmatic and non-asthmatic donors differ. Some of these differences include an altered profile and increased production of extracellular matrix proteins, pro-inflammatory mediators and adhesion receptors, collectively suggesting that ASM cells from asthmatic subjects have the capacity to alter their environment, actively participate in repair processes and functionally respond to changes in their microenvironment.
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Pires-Neto RC, Morales MMB, Lancas T, Inforsato N, Duarte MIS, Amato MBP, de Carvalho CRR, da Silva LFF, Mauad T, Dolhnikoff M. Expression of acute-phase cytokines, surfactant proteins, and epithelial apoptosis in small airways of human acute respiratory distress syndrome. J Crit Care 2012; 28:111.e9-111.e15. [PMID: 22835422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2012.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recent studies suggest a role for distal airway injury in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The epithelium lining the small airways secretes a large number of molecules such as surfactant components and inflammatory mediators. There is little information on how these small airway secretory functions are altered in ARDS. MATERIALS AND METHODS We studied the lungs of 31 patients with ARDS (Pao(2)/fraction of inspired oxygen ≤200, 45 ± 14 years, 16 men) and 11 controls (52 ± 16 years, 7 men) submitted to autopsy and quantified the expression of interleukin (IL) 6, IL-8, surfactant proteins (SP) A and SP-B in the epithelium of small airways using immunohistochemistry and image analysis. In addition, an index of airway epithelial apoptosis was determined by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine-triphosphatase nick-end labeling assay, caspase 3, and Fas/Fas ligand expression. The density of inflammatory cells expressing IL-6 and IL-8 within the small airway walls was also quantified. RESULTS Acute respiratory distress syndrome airways showed an increase in the epithelial expression of IL-8 (P = .006) and an increased density of inflammatory cells expressing IL-6 (P = .004) and IL-8 (P < .001) compared with controls. There were no differences in SP-A and SP-B epithelium expression or in epithelial apoptosis index between ARDS and controls. CONCLUSION Distal airways are involved in ARDS lung inflammation and show a high expression of proinflammatory interleukins in both airway epithelial and inflammatory cells. Apoptosis may not be a major mechanism of airway epithelial cell death in ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruy Camargo Pires-Neto
- Department of Pathology, Experimental Air Pollution Laboratory-LIM05, Sao Paulo University Medical School, 01246903 Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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Yick CY, Ferreira DS, Annoni R, Thüsen JH, Kunst PW, Bel EH, Lutter R, Mauad T, Sterk PJ. Extracellular matrix in airway smooth muscle is associated with dynamics of airway function in asthma. Allergy 2012; 67:552-9. [PMID: 22229658 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2011.02773.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Altered deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the airway smooth muscle (ASM) layer as observed in asthma may influence ASM mechanical properties. We hypothesized that ECM in ASM is associated with airway function in asthma. First, we investigated the difference in ECM expression in ASM between asthma and controls. Second, we examined whether ECM expression is associated with bronchoconstriction and bronchodilation in vivo. METHODS Our cross-sectional study comprised 19 atopic mild asthma patients, 15 atopic and 12 nonatopic healthy subjects. Spirometry, methacholine responsiveness, deep-breath-induced bronchodilation (ΔR(rs) ) and bronchoscopy with endobronchial biopsies were performed. Positive staining of elastin, collagen I, III and IV, decorin, versican, fibronectin, laminin and tenascin in ASM was quantified as fractional area and mean density. Data were analysed using Pearson's or Spearman's correlation coefficient. RESULTS Extracellular matrix expression in ASM was not different between asthma and controls. In asthmatics, fractional area and mean density of collagen I and III were correlated with methacholine dose-response slope and ΔR(rs) , respectively (r = 0.71, P < 0.01; r = 0.60, P = 0.02). Furthermore, ASM collagen III and laminin in asthma were correlated with FEV(1) reversibility (r = -0.65, P = 0.01; r = -0.54, P = 0.04). CONCLUSION In asthma, ECM in ASM is related to the dynamics of airway function in the absence of differences in ECM expression between asthma and controls. This indicates that the ASM layer in its full composition is a major structural component in determining variable airways obstruction in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Y. Yick
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Centre; Amsterdam; the Netherlands
| | - D. S. Ferreira
- Department of Pathology; São Paulo University Medical School; USP; São Paulo; Brazil
| | - R. Annoni
- Department of Pathology; São Paulo University Medical School; USP; São Paulo; Brazil
| | | | - P. W. Kunst
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Centre; Amsterdam; the Netherlands
| | - E. H. Bel
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Centre; Amsterdam; the Netherlands
| | - R. Lutter
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Centre; Amsterdam; the Netherlands
| | - T. Mauad
- Department of Pathology; São Paulo University Medical School; USP; São Paulo; Brazil
| | - P. J. Sterk
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Centre; Amsterdam; the Netherlands
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Reddel CJ, Weiss AS, Burgess JK. Elastin in asthma. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2012; 25:144-53. [PMID: 22366197 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2012.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Revised: 01/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix is generally increased in asthma, causing thickening of the airways which may either increase or decrease airway responsiveness, depending on the mechanical requirements of the deposited matrix. However, in vitro studies have shown that the altered extracellular matrix produced by asthmatic airway smooth muscle cells is able to induce increased proliferation of non-asthmatic smooth muscle cells, which is a process believed to contribute to airway hyper-responsiveness in asthma. Elastin is an extracellular matrix protein that is altered in asthmatic airways, but there has been no systematic investigation of the functional effect of these changes. This review reveals divergent reports of the state of elastin in the airway wall in asthma. In some layers of the airway it has been described as increased, decreased and/or fragmented, or unchanged. There is also considerable evidence for an imbalance of matrix metalloproteinases, which degrade elastin, and their respective inhibitors the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, which collectively help to explain observations of both increased elastin and elastin fragments. A loss of lung elastic recoil in asthma suggests a mechanical role for disordered elastin in the aetiology of the disease, but extensive studies of elastin in other tissues show that elastin fragments elicit cellular effects such as increased proliferation and inflammation. This review summarises the current understanding of the role of elastin in the asthmatic airway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline J Reddel
- School of Molecular Bioscience, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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Mohamed JS, Boriek AM. Loss of desmin triggers mechanosensitivity and up-regulation of Ankrd1 expression through Akt-NF-κB signaling pathway in smooth muscle cells. FASEB J 2011; 26:757-65. [PMID: 22085644 DOI: 10.1096/fj.10-160291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Muscle cells, including human airway smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) express ankyrin repeat protein 1 (Ankrd1), a member of ankyrin repeat protein family. Ankrd1 efficiently interacts with the type III intermediate filament desmin. Our earlier study showed that desmin is an intracellular load-bearing protein that influences airway compliance, lung recoil, and airway contractile responsiveness. These results suggest that Ankrd1 and desmin may play important roles on ASMC homeostasis. Here we show that small interfering (si)RNA-mediated knockdown of the desmin gene in HASMCs, recombinant HASMCs (reHASMCs), up-regulates Ankrd1 expression. Moreover, loss of desmin in HASMCs increases the phosphorylation of Akt, inhibitor of κB kinase (IKK)-α, and inhibitor of κB (IκB)-α proteins, leading to NF-κB activation. Treatment of reHASMCs with Akt, IKKα, IκBα, or NF-κB inhibitor inhibits the loss of desmin-induced Ankrd1 up-regulation, suggesting Akt/NF-κB-mediated Ankrd1 regulation. Transfection of reHASMCs with siRNA specific for p50 or p65 corroborates the NF-κB-mediated Ankrd1 regulation. Luciferase reporter assays show that NF-κB directly binds on Ankrd1 promoter and up-regulates Ankrd1 levels. Overall, our data provide a new link between desmin and Ankrd1 regulation, which may be important for ASMC homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaith S Mohamed
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Mohamed JS, Hajira A, Li Z, Paulin D, Boriek AM. Desmin regulates airway smooth muscle hypertrophy through early growth-responsive protein-1 and microRNA-26a. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:43394-404. [PMID: 21903578 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.235127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Bronchial biopsies of asthmatic patients show a negative correlation desmin expression in airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) and airway hyperresponsiveness. We previously showed that desmin is an intracellular load-bearing protein, which influences airway compliance, lung recoil, and airway contractile responsiveness (Shardonofsky, F. R., Capetanaki, Y., and Boriek, A. M. (2006) Am. J. Physiol. Lung Cell. Mol. Physiol. 290, L890-L896). These results suggest that desmin may play an important role in ASMC homeostasis. Here, we report that ASMCs of desmin null mice (ASMCs(Des-/-)) show hypertrophy and up-regulation microRNA-26a (miR-26a). Knockdown of miR-26a in ASMCs(Des-/-) inhibits hypertrophy, whereas enforced expression of miR-26a in ASMCs(Des+/+) induces hypertrophy. We identify that Egr1 (early growth responsive protein-1) activates miR-26a promoter via enhanced phosphorylation of Erk1/2 in ASMCs(Des-/-). We show glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) as a target gene of miR-26a. Moreover, induction of ASMCs(Des-/-) hypertrophy by the Erk-1/2/Egr-1/miR-26a/GSK-3β pathway is consistent in human recombinant ASMCs, which stably suppresses 90% endogenous desmin expression. Overall, our data demonstrate a novel role for desmin as an anti-hypertrophic protein necessary for ASMC homeostasis and identifies desmin as a novel regulator of microRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaith S Mohamed
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Wang P, Zhang G, Qin X, Qiu Z, Li N, Chen Z, Li W, Shen H. Inhibition of allergen-induced airway remodeling by neonatal bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccination is associated with interferon-gamma-producing T cells but not regulatory T cells in mice. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2011; 107:163-70. [PMID: 21802025 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2011.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Revised: 05/02/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological assessments of patients and studies using animal models show that exposure to Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine in early life prevents asthma development. However, little is known about the potential of neonatal BCG vaccination in preventing the development of airway remodeling of asthma. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of multiple BCG vaccinations of neonates on the airway remodeling in mice and the accompanied pulmonary T cell responses. METHODS BALB/c neonates were vaccinated with BCG 3 times. At 5 and 7 weeks of age, the mice were sensitized and then challenged with aerosolized ovalbumin (OVA) 3 times per week for 8 successive weeks. The extent of airway remodeling and induced pulmonary T cell responses were characterized. RESULTS Multiple BCG vaccinations of neonates reduced OVA-induced remodeling events, including levels of peribronchial α-smooth muscle actin, peribronchial fibrosis, and airway epithelial mucin accumulation. The BCG vaccinations also decreased peribronchial cells expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). In contrast, BCG vaccinations increased the frequency of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-producing T cells in the lung and IFN-γ level in BALF, with no effects on pulmonary regulatory T cells and IL-17-producing T cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that multiple BCG vaccinations of neonates reduced metrics characteristic of allergen-induced airway remodeling. More importantly, this decrease was not associated with an increased number of pulmonary regulatory T cells but instead correlated with an increase of IFN-γ-producing T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingli Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, PR China
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Kuo C, Lim S, King NJC, Johnston SL, Burgess JK, Black JL, Oliver BG. Rhinovirus infection induces extracellular matrix protein deposition in asthmatic and nonasthmatic airway smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2011; 300:L951-7. [DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00411.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway remodeling, which includes increases in the extracellular matrix (ECM), is a characteristic feature of asthma and is correlated to disease severity. Rhinovirus (RV) infections are associated with increased risk of asthma development in young children and are the most common cause of asthma exacerbations. We examined whether viral infections can increase ECM deposition and whether this increased ECM modulates cell proliferation and migration. RV infection of nonasthmatic airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells significantly increased the deposition of fibronectin (40% increase, n = 12) and perlecan (80% increase, n = 14), while infection of asthmatic ASM cells significantly increased fibronectin (75% increase, n = 9) and collagen IV (15% increase, n = 9). We then treated the ASM cells with the Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, imiquimod, and pure RV RNA and were able to show that the mechanism through which RV induced ECM deposition was via the activation of TLR3 and TLR7/8. Finally, we assessed whether the virus-induced ECM was bioactive by measuring the amount of migration and proliferation of virus-naive cells that seeded onto the ECM. Basically, ECM from asthmatic ASM cells induced twofold greater migration of virus-naive ASM cells than ECM from nonasthmatic ASM cells, and these rates of migration were further increased on RV-modulated ECM. Increased migration on the RV-modulated ECM was not due to increased cell proliferation, as RV-modulated ECM decreased the proliferation of virus-naive cells. Our results suggest that viruses may contribute to airway remodeling through increased ECM deposition, which in turn may contribute to increased ASM mass via increased cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis Kuo
- Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Sydney, Camperdown,
| | - Sam Lim
- Office of Clinical Science, Duke-National University of Singapore, Singapore; and
| | | | - Sebastian L. Johnston
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Heart and Lung Institute, Medical Research Council, and Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janette K. Burgess
- Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Sydney, Camperdown,
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Judith L. Black
- Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Sydney, Camperdown,
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Brian G. Oliver
- Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Sydney, Camperdown,
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
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Kuo C, Lim S, King NJC, Bartlett NW, Walton RP, Zhu J, Glanville N, Aniscenko J, Johnston SL, Burgess JK, Black JL, Oliver BG. Rhinovirus infection induces expression of airway remodelling factors in vitro and in vivo. Respirology 2011; 16:367-77. [PMID: 21199160 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1843.2010.01918.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE A hallmark of asthma is airway remodelling, which includes increased deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) protein. Viral infections may promote the development of asthma and are the most common causes of asthma exacerbations. We evaluated whether rhinovirus (RV) infection induces airway remodelling, as assessed by ECM deposition. METHODS Primary human bronchial epithelial cells and lung parenchymal fibroblasts were infected with RV-2 or RV-16, or treated with RV-16 RNA, imiquimod (Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8 agonist) or polyinosinic : polycytidylic acid (poly I : C) (activator of TLR 3, retinoic-acid-inducible protein I and melanoma-differentiated-associated gene 5). Changes in ECM proteins and their transcription were measured by ELISA and quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, gene expression for ECM proteins was assessed in a mouse model of RV infection. RESULTS RV infection increased deposition of the ECM protein, perlecan, by human bronchial epithelial cells, and collagen V and matrix-bound vascular endothelial growth factor were increased in both human bronchial epithelial cell and fibroblast cultures. Purified RV-16 RNA, poly I : C and imiquimod induced similar increases in ECM deposition to those observed with RV-infected fibroblasts. However, only poly I : C induced ECM deposition by bronchial epithelial cells, suggesting that RV-induced ECM deposition is mediated through TLR. Furthermore, gene expression for fibronectin and collagen I was increased in lung homogenates of mice infected with RV-1b. CONCLUSIONS RV infection and TLR ligands promote ECM deposition in isolated cell systems and RV induces ECM gene expression in vivo, thus demonstrating that RV has the potential to contribute to remodelling of the airways through induction of ECM deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis Kuo
- Discipline of Pharmacology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, UK
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Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways in which many cells and cellular elements play a role. Chronic inflammation is associated with airway hyper-responsiveness that leads to recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing, as well as variable airflow obstruction within the lung. With time, such airflow obstruction may become permanent due to remodeling. It has been treated for more than 100 years by subcutaneous immunotherapy with allergen extracts but in recent years, other forms and types of immunotherapy have been introduced. Perhaps the most successful of these to date, is sublingual immunotherapy, which has attained significant usage in European countries but has yet to make inroads into clinical practice in North America. Other mechanisms to modify the inflammatory responses of asthma have included immunotherapy with recombinant allergens, the use of allergen peptides targeting antigen-specific T cells and the administration of Toll-like receptor agonists coupled to allergen proteins. As the inflammatory responses in asthma frequently involve IgE, a modified monoclonal antibody to IgE and interfering with its binding to the IgE receptor have gained acceptance for treating severe allergic asthma. Other monoclonal antibodies or recombinant receptor antagonists are being assessed for their ability to block other contributors to the inflammatory response. Finally, attempts have been made to generate autoantibody responses to cytokines implicated in asthma. Most of these therapies aim to modify or inhibit the so-called Th 2 immune response, which is implicated in many forms of asthma, or to inhibit cytokines involved in these responses. However, an added benefit of classical immunotherapy seems to be the ability to prevent the allergic progression to new sensitivities and new forms of allergic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Warrington
- University of Manitoba, GC319, 820 Sherbook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada.
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Orihara K, Dil N, Anaparti V, Moqbel R. What's new in asthma pathophysiology and immunopathology? Expert Rev Respir Med 2011; 4:605-29. [PMID: 20923340 DOI: 10.1586/ers.10.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Research on asthma pathophysiology over the past decade has expanded the complex repertoire involved in the pathophysiology of asthma to include inflammatory, immune and structural cells, as well as a wide range of mediators. Studies have identified a role for connective and other mesenchymal tissues involved in airway remodeling. Recent findings have implicated the innate immune response in asthma and have revealed interesting patterns of interaction between the innate and adaptive immune response and the associated complex chronic inflammatory reaction. New immune cell populations have also been added to this repertoire, including Tregs, natural killer T cells and Th17 cells. The role of the eosinophil, a prominent pathological feature in most asthma phenotypes, has also been expanding to include roles such as tissue modifiers and immune regulators via a number of fascinating and hitherto unexplored mechanistic pathways. In addition, new and significant roles have been proposed for airway smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, epithelial and endothelial cells. Tissue remodeling is now considered an integral element of asthma pathophysiology. Finally, an intricate network of mediators, released from both immune and inflammatory cells, including thymus stromal lymphopoietin and matrix metalloproteinases, have added to the complex milieu of asthma immunity and inflammation. These findings have implications for therapy and the search for novel strategies towards better disease management. Sadly, and perhaps due to the complex nature of asthma, advances in therapeutic discoveries and developments have been limited. Thus, understanding the precise roles played by the numerous dramatis personae in this odyssey, both individually and collectively within the context of asthma pathophysiology, continues to pose new challenges. It is clear that the next stage in this saga is to embark on studies that transcend reductionist approaches to involve system analysis of the complex and multiple variables involved in asthma, including the need to narrow down the phenotypes of this condition based on careful analysis of the organs (lung and airways), cells, mediators and other factors involved in bronchial asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanami Orihara
- Department of Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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Lee BY, Cho S, Shin DH, Kim H. Genome-wide association study of copy number variations associated with pulmonary function measures in Korea Associated Resource (KARE) cohorts. Genomics 2010; 97:101-5. [PMID: 21059387 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2010.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2010] [Revised: 10/29/2010] [Accepted: 11/02/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Copy number variation (CNV) is an attractive emerging approach to study the association with various diseases. We performed a CNV-based genome-wide association study of pulmonary function measures (FEV(1), FVC, and FEV(1)/FVC) in KARE cohorts. Affymetrix Genome-wide Human SNP Array 5.0 was used to measure genome-wide variation and CNV segmentation was performed using Golden Helix SVS 7.0. Single and multivariate regressions were used for the association study using the R statistical package and the Dabatase for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated (DAVID v6.7b) tool for the functional annotation. We identified significantly associated 1260 CNVs with pulmonary function measures of FEV(1) and FVC. Functional gene classification and annotation analysis found 5 highly enriched clusters, the BPI/LBP/Plunc superfamily, myosin, serpin peptidase inhibitor, protein tyrosine phosphatase, and olfactory receptors. According to the functional annotation, gene-based CNVs are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis and inflammatory responsiveness of pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Young Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, San 56-1, Sillim-dong, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea.
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Sköld CM. Remodeling in asthma and COPD--differences and similarities. CLINICAL RESPIRATORY JOURNAL 2010; 4 Suppl 1:20-7. [PMID: 20500606 DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-699x.2010.00193.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are both inflammatory disorders. Diagnosis of these diseases is based upon limitation of expiratory airflow. The pathophysiological correlates to this impaired lung function are complex but they are associated with the development of structural changes in the airways and lung parenchyma. These remodeling processes differ between the two diseases. In asthma, airways obstruction is predominately located in the large airways, although recent studies indicate that inflammation and structural changes also is present in other compartments of the lungs. In COPD, remodeling of the small airways and lung parenchyma are the main correlates to the limitation of expiratory airflow. However, both asthma and COPD are heterogeneous disorders including various phenotypes and there is a considerable overlap between the two diseases. METHODS AND RESULTS In the present review, airway remodeling in asthma and COPD will be discussed in three different compartments of the airways: large airways, small airways and lung parenchyma. Different inflammatory cells will be mentioned, as well as markers of remodeling. CONCLUSION In COPD and severe asthma, current anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapy does not restore lung function impairment fully. It is therefore recognized that research aiming to explore mechanisms of airway remodeling should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Magnus Sköld
- Department Medicine, Division of Respiratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Boyce JA, Broide D, Matsumoto K, Bochner BS. Advances in mechanisms of asthma, allergy, and immunology in 2008. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2009; 123:569-74. [PMID: 19281904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2009.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2009] [Accepted: 01/07/2009] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes selected articles appearing in 2008 in the Journal. Articles chosen include those improving our understanding of mechanisms of allergic diseases by focusing on human basophil, mast cell, and eosinophil biology; IgE and its high-affinity receptor on various cells; novel properties of omalizumab; airways remodeling; and genetics. Articles from other journals have been included to supplement the topics presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Boyce
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass, USA
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Roth M, Black JL. An imbalance in C/EBPs and increased mitochondrial activity in asthmatic airway smooth muscle cells: novel targets in asthma therapy? Br J Pharmacol 2009; 157:334-41. [PMID: 19371343 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00188.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The asthma prevalence was increasing over the past two decades worldwide. Allergic asthma, caused by inhaled allergens of different origin or by food, is mediated by inflammatory mechanisms. The action of non-allergic asthma, induced by cold air, humidity, temperature or exercise, is not well understood. Asthma affects up to 15% of the population and is treated with anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing drugs which allow symptom control. Asthma was first defined as a malfunction of the airway smooth muscle, later as an imbalanced immune response of the lung. Recent studies placed the airway smooth muscle again into the focus. Here we summarize the molecular biological basis of the deregulated function of the human airway smooth muscle cell as a cause or important contributor to the pathology of asthma. In the asthmatic human airway smooth muscle cells, there is: (i) a deregulation of cell differentiation due to low levels of maturation-regulating transcription factors such as CCAAT/enhancer binding proteins and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, thereby reducing the cells threshold to proliferate and to secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines under certain conditions; (ii) a higher basal energy turnover that is due to increased number and activity of mitochondria; and (iii) a modified feedback mechanism between cells and the extracellular matrix they are embedded in. All these cellular pathologies are linked to each other and to the innate immune response of the lung, but the sequence of events is unclear and needs further investigation. However, these findings may present the basis for the development of novel curative asthma drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Roth
- Pulmonary Cell Research, Pneumology, University Hospital Basel, Biomedicine, Lab 305, Petersgraben 4, Basel CH-4031, Switzerland.
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Weckmann M, Trian T, Oliver BG. Reconstruction is not renovation - the role of remodeling in asthma. J Asthma Allergy 2009; 2:33-42. [PMID: 21437142 PMCID: PMC3048608 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s4016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The chronicity of asthma results not only in persistent lung inflammation but also in changes in structure and composition of this vital organ. These changes are most commonly referred to as remodeling, and include epithelial dysplasia, angiogenesis, changes in the extracellular matrix and increased smooth muscle mass. In this review we summarize recent findings on the contribution of remodeling to the pathological phenotype of asthma. We discuss how and why current treatment (such as corticosteroids) options fail to adequately treat remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Weckmann
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Camperdown, NSW-2050, Australia; Bosch Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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