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Airway hyperreactivity, smooth muscle and calcium
European Journal of Respiratory Diseases. Supplement
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Airway hyperreactivity may stem from altered smooth muscle cell function. Changes in intracellular calcium handling or contractile protein sensitivity can increase airway smooth muscle responsiveness.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory physiology
- Smooth muscle pharmacology
Background:
- Airway hyperreactivity is a hallmark of asthma and other respiratory diseases.
- It is characterized by exaggerated bronchoconstriction in response to various stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of excitation-contraction coupling in airway smooth muscle cells as a cause of airway hyperreactivity.
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying increased intracellular calcium and enhanced contractile protein activation.
Main Methods:
- The study proposes a theoretical framework based on known physiological mechanisms.
- It analyzes potential alterations in calcium delivery, removal, and contractile protein sensitivity.
Main Results:
- Increased intracellular calcium can result from enhanced influx or release.
- Reduced calcium removal or increased sensitivity of contractile proteins also contribute.
- These cellular changes can lead to non-specific airway smooth muscle supersensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Dysregulation of excitation-contraction coupling in airway smooth muscle is a plausible contributor to airway hyperreactivity.
- Mediators, hormones, and other agents may induce these cellular changes.