Antigen challenge influences various transcription factors of rat bronchus: protein/DNA array study

Although the transcription factors are required for expression of the proinflammatory cytokines and immune proteins which are involved in airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation of bronchial asthma, the antigen-induced alterations of the transcription factors in bronchi have not yet been revealed. Therefore, in order to profile the alteration pattern of the transcription factors after antigen challenge in bronchi, we used protein/DNA arrays. Rats were sensitized and repeatedly challenged with 2,4-dinitrophenylated Ascaris suum antigen. Half, 1, 2 and 4 h after the last antigen challenge, protein/DNA array was performed with nuclear extract of bronchial tissue. Twenty-one the transcription factors exhibited an activation after the last antigen challenge in rat bronchial tissue. Among them, upstream transcription factor-1 (USF-1) and CAAT box general (CBF) were markedly activated after the last antigen challenge. Conversely, 4 transcription factors were inactivated after the last challenge. In development of bronchial asthma, some of the transcription factors may have an ability to modulate the transcription of inflammatory proteins such as cytokines, inflammatory enzymes, etc. Furthermore, the transcription factors, such as USF-1 and CBF, which have not been taken notice so far are also presumed to play an important role in the development of bronchial asthma.