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Modulation of airway responsiveness by anionic and cationic polyelectrolyte substances
Tomoyuki Yahata1, Yoshihiro Nishimura, Hitoshi Maeda
1Division of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
European Journal of Pharmacology
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Anionic and cationic polyelectrolytes impact airway responsiveness. Low-molecular-weight heparin and poly-L-glutamic acid reduced bronchoconstriction, while poly-L-lysine increased it, highlighting the role of charge interactions in airway reactivity.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Bronchoconstriction is a key feature of allergic airway diseases.
- The role of charged molecules in modulating airway hyperresponsiveness is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of anionic and cationic polyelectrolytes on bronchoconstriction.
- To determine the influence of charge interactions on airway responsiveness in a sensitized model.
Main Methods:
- Ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs were used to assess respiratory resistance (Rrs).
- Animals were exposed to antigen with or without pre-inhalation of heparin, poly-L-glutamic acid, poly-L-lysine, or dextran.
- The effects of oral dalteparin and methacholine challenges were also evaluated.
Main Results:
- Inhaled low-molecular-weight heparin and poly-L-glutamic acid significantly reduced immediate and late asthmatic responses.
- Oral dalteparin attenuated the late response.
- Poly-L-lysine inhalation increased airway hyperresponsiveness, which was mitigated by prior heparin exposure.
Conclusions:
- Cationic-anionic interactions significantly influence airway responsiveness.
- Anionic polyelectrolytes may have a protective role against antigen-induced bronchoconstriction.
- Targeting charge-based interactions could be a therapeutic strategy for airway hyperresponsiveness.