Mediators on human airway smooth muscle

Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol. 1997 Mar-Apr;24(3-4):269-72. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.1997.tb01818.x.

Abstract

1. Bronchial hyperresponsiveness in asthma may be due to several abnormalities, but must include alterations in the airway smooth muscle responsiveness and/or volume. 2. Increased responsiveness of airway smooth muscle in vitro can be induced by certain inflammatory cell products and by induction of sensitization (atopy). 3. Increased airway smooth muscle growth can also be induced by inflammatory cell products and atopic serum. 4. Mast cell numbers are increased in the airways of asthmatics and, in our studies, in airway smooth muscle that is sensitized and hyperresponsive. 5. We propose that there is a relationship between mast cells and airway smooth muscle cells which, once an allergic process has been initiated, results in the development of critical features in the lungs in asthma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Asthma / immunology
  • Asthma / physiopathology*
  • Bronchi / immunology
  • Bronchi / physiopathology*
  • Bronchial Hyperreactivity / immunology
  • Bronchial Hyperreactivity / physiopathology*
  • Bronchoconstriction / physiology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators / physiology
  • Mast Cells / immunology
  • Mast Cells / physiology
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology
  • Muscle, Smooth / immunology
  • Muscle, Smooth / physiopathology

Substances

  • Inflammation Mediators