title: Airway hyperresponsiveness and calcium handling by smooth muscle: a "deeper look".
abstract: We propose that abnormal calcium handling by the airway smooth muscle may be an important determinant of airway hyperresponsiveness. The amplitude, frequency, or localization of Ca(2+) oscillations in the smooth muscle may determine the degree of airway sensitivity and reactivity, which are characteristic features of asthma.
authors.affiliation: Asthma Research Group, Department of Medicine, St. Joseph's Healthcare & McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
authors.forename: Krishnan
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Parameswaran
authors.forename: Luke J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Janssen
authors.forename: Paul M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: O'Byrne
mesh_terms: D001249:Asthma / Q000209:etiology; D002118:Calcium / Q000378:metabolism*; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000378:metabolism; D012130:Respiratory Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology*; D012137:Respiratory System / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D002118:Calcium