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Alcohol-Induced Mucociliary Dysfunction: Role of Defective CFTR Channel Function
Lawrence Rasmussen1,2, Denise Stafford1, Jennifer LaFontaine1
1Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|July 28, 2023
Summary
Excessive alcohol intake impairs airway defense by reducing CFTR function, leading to decreased mucociliary clearance (MCC) and increased respiratory infection risk. This study shows alcohol alters mucus properties, compromising lung health.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to increased respiratory infections.
- Mucociliary clearance (MCC) is a critical airway defense mechanism.
- The role of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR) in alcohol-induced respiratory impairment is not fully understood.
Approach:
- Investigated the hypothesis that alcohol impairs MCC by reducing CFTR function.
- Utilized Sprague Dawley rats fed an alcohol or control diet for eight weeks.
- Assessed CFTR activity, MCC, airway periciliary liquid depth, mucus transport, and MUC5b/CFTR levels.
Key Points:
- Alcohol consumption decreased CFTR ion transport and protein levels in rat airways.
- Alcohol-fed rats exhibited significantly reduced MCC and delayed mucus transport.
- Reduced airway surface hydration and elevated MUC5b expression contributed to diminished MCC.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol intake impairs CFTR channel expression and activity.
- This leads to reduced airway hydration and compromised mucociliary clearance.
- CFTR dysfunction is implicated in the increased susceptibility to respiratory pathogens in excessive alcohol users.
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