Transforming growth factor beta in normal human lung: preferential location in bronchial epithelial cells.
BACKGROUND
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) is an immunomodulatory cytokine regulating the proliferation and differentiation of various cell types. It also contributes to the maintenance of tissue architecture by influencing the production of extracellular matrix components. TGF-beta has been detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from normal human lung, but the nature and distribution of cells containing TGF-beta in this organ remain unknown.


METHODS
Fourteen normal human lung specimens were studied by immunohistochemistry with a monoclonal antibody recognizing TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2 and TGF-beta 3.


RESULTS
TGF-beta was detected in all cases. Bronchial epithelial cells contained the largest amounts of TGF-beta. In these cells the staining was brightest at the apical pole. Macrophages and smooth muscle cells also contained TGF-beta, although less than epithelial cells. No TGF-beta was detected in other cell populations, including endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and pneumocytes.


CONCLUSIONS
The bronchial epithelial compartment appears to be the main location of TGF-beta in the normal human lung, suggesting that this cytokine has a pivotal role in the immunological properties of the bronchial mucosa.
Magnan
A
A
INSERM U 131, Clamart, France.
Frachon
I
I
Rain
B
B
Peuchmaur
M
M
Monti
G
G
Lenot
B
B
Fattal
M
M
Simonneau
G
G
Galanaud
P
P
Emilie
D
D
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001980:Bronchi / Q000737:chemistry*; D004848:Epithelium / Q000737:chemistry; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D008264:Macrophages / Q000737:chemistry; D008875:Middle Aged; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000737:chemistry; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000032:analysis*
D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta