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Strain increases airway smooth muscle cell proliferation
P G Smith1, K E Janiga, M C Bruce
1Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.
American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Mechanical stretch promotes airway smooth muscle (ASM) cell growth and protein accumulation in vitro. This suggests that physical forces may contribute to airway hyperresponsiveness in lung diseases.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Airway smooth muscle (ASM) cell hyperplasia is prevalent in lung diseases requiring increased ventilation.
- The role of mechanical deformation in ASM cell hyperplasia remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro effects of cyclic stretch on ASM cell proliferation and protein content.
- To determine if mechanical forces contribute to ASM cell hyperplasia.
Main Methods:
- Canine ASM cells cultured on collagen-coated membranes were subjected to cyclic stretch.
- Control groups included cells on a rocking platform and unmanipulated cells.
- Cell proliferation assessed via [3H]thymidine incorporation and cell numbers; protein content measured at confluence.
Main Results:
- Cyclic stretch significantly increased ASM cell numbers during log phase growth (P < 0.001).
- [3H]thymidine incorporation per cell was elevated in stretched cells at 5 days but not 14 days.
- Total cellular protein content per well was significantly higher in stretched cells compared to controls (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Mechanical stretch in vitro stimulates ASM cell proliferation and increases protein content.
- These findings suggest that mechanical forces may contribute to ASM hyperplasia and airway resistance in lung diseases.