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Determining Ciliary Function and Membrane Impermeability of the Pseudostratified Lung Airway Epithelium

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Epithelial Barrier Dysfunction in Chronic Respiratory Diseases.

François M Carlier^1,2, Charlotte de Fays¹, Charles Pilette^1,3

¹Pole of Pneumology, ENT, and Dermatology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.

Frontiers in Physiology

|July 12, 2021

Summary

Epithelial cells in the airways form a crucial barrier against inhaled threats. This review details how this barrier is compromised in lung diseases like COPD and asthma, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.

Keywords:

COPD airway epithelium asthma barrier dysfunction cystic fibrosis idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis mucosal immunity

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Area of Science:

Pulmonary Medicine
Cell Biology
Immunology

Background:

Epithelial cells form a vital first line of defense on mucosal surfaces, protecting against environmental challenges.
These cells employ physical, chemical, and immune mechanisms for host protection.
In the lungs, the airway epithelial barrier is constantly challenged by inhaled agents.

Purpose of the Study:

To review epithelial barrier abnormalities in chronic lung diseases.
To summarize mechanisms underlying impaired barrier function.
To identify potential therapeutic targets for future interventions.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies on airway epithelial barrier function.
Analysis of epithelial abnormalities in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary fibrosis.
Synthesis of current knowledge on mechanisms of impaired barrier function.

Main Results:

Chronic lung diseases are characterized by significant alterations in the airway epithelial barrier.
Impaired barrier function in these conditions results from complex underlying mechanisms.
Understanding these mechanisms is key to developing new treatments.

Conclusions:

Epithelial barrier dysfunction is a common feature in various chronic lung disorders.
Identifying and targeting the mechanisms of impaired barrier function offers therapeutic potential.
Further research into epithelial barrier repair could lead to novel treatment strategies for lung diseases.