Breakdown in epithelial barrier function in patients with asthma: identification of novel therapeutic approaches.
The bronchial epithelium is pivotally involved in the provision of chemical, physical, and immunologic barriers to the inhaled environment. These barriers serve to maintain normal homeostasis, but when compromised, the immunologic barrier becomes activated to protect the internal milieu of the lung. We discuss what is currently understood about abnormalities in these barrier functions in patients with asthma and consider novel therapeutic opportunities that target this key structure.
Swindle
Emily J
EJ
Division of Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom.
Collins
Jane E
JE
Davies
Donna E
DE
D001249:Asthma / Q000276:immunology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007107:Immune System; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations; D020545:Respiratory Mucosa / Q000473:pathology*; D014777:Virus Diseases
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations