American journal of respiratory cell and molecular biology
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Am. J. Respir. Cell Mol. Biol. · Mar 2003
Comparative StudyInterleukin-9 induces goblet cell hyperplasia during repair of human airway epithelia.
Asthma is characterized by airway inflammation, smooth muscle hyperreactivity, and airway remodeling with excessive mucus production. The effect cytokines like interleukin (IL)-9 have on airway epithelia has been addressed using murine models of asthma, as well as transgenic and knockout mice. Though highly informative, differences exist between mouse and human airway epithelia, including cellular composition (e.g., Clara cells) and stem cell/plasticity capabilities. ⋯ Moreover, exposure to IL-9 resulted in increased lysozyme and mucus production by the epithelia. Thus, a combination of IL-9 and mechanical injury can explain, in part, goblet cell hyperplasia that is evident in the lungs of individuals with asthma. These data suggest that interventions that limit airway epithelial damage, block IL-9, or modulate the repair process should result in decreased airway remodeling and prevent the chronic manifestations of this disease.