Neural control of airway inflammation

Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2009 Nov;9(6):484-90. doi: 10.1007/s11882-009-0071-9.

Abstract

Abnormal neural function contributes to the pathogenesis of airway disease. In addition to affecting airway physiology, the nerves produce and release inflammatory mediators, contributing to the recruitment and activation of leukocytes. Activated inflammatory cells in turn affect the function of airway nerves, changing the production and release of neurotransmitters. Cross-talk between airway nerves and leukocytes helps to maintain chronic inflammation and accentuates neural control of the airways.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Asthma / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Inflammation / physiopathology*
  • Inflammation Mediators / metabolism
  • Lung / innervation*
  • Lung / physiopathology
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System / physiopathology*
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / physiopathology*
  • Receptors, Adrenergic / metabolism
  • Receptors, Muscarinic / metabolism
  • Sympathetic Nervous System / physiopathology*
  • Synaptic Transmission

Substances

  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Receptors, Adrenergic
  • Receptors, Muscarinic