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Updated: Apr 15, 2026

Isolation of Lung Retinoid-Containing Cells by Cell Sorting
Published on: April 11, 2025
Lung retinoid metabolism and signaling in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Abstract:
There are a number of sites that are required for the production and/or action of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). In particular, interruption of different components of the chain of trafficking and metabolism has been associated with cancers arising in numerous organs of the body. Preliminary work suggests that such interruptions may be a factor in lung disorders induced by the smoke exposure. The active metabolite of retinoid, ATRA offers a therapeutic strategy to protect against functional abnormality in the lung, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This review deals with the lung retinoid metabolism and mediators of retinoid trafficking and signaling with special emphasis on their roles in health and disease.
Insights
All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) plays a vital role in lung health. Disruptions in ATRA metabolism and trafficking are linked to lung diseases like COPD, especially after smoke exposure.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is crucial for cellular function.
- Disruptions in ATRA production, metabolism, and trafficking are implicated in various cancers.
- Preliminary evidence suggests a link between these disruptions and smoke-induced lung disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the metabolism and trafficking of retinoids in the lung.
- To explore the role of retinoid signaling in lung health and disease.
- To highlight ATRA as a potential therapeutic strategy for lung conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of retinoid metabolism and signaling pathways.
- Analysis of the impact of interrupted retinoid trafficking on lung function.
- Examination of ATRA's therapeutic potential in lung diseases.
Main Results:
- Specific sites are essential for ATRA production and action.
- Interrupted retinoid metabolism and trafficking are associated with cancers and may contribute to lung disorders.
- ATRA's role in protecting against lung functional abnormalities, including COPD, is supported.
Conclusions:
- Retinoid metabolism and trafficking are critical for maintaining lung health.
- Dysregulation of these pathways, particularly due to smoke exposure, contributes to lung disease pathogenesis.
- Targeting ATRA offers a promising therapeutic avenue for preventing and treating lung conditions like COPD.
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