Work

Human eosinophil major basic protein induces airway constriction and airway hyperresponsiveness in primates.

Year: 1991

Type: article

Abstract: We have examined the effects of direct intratracheal instillation of purified eosinophil granule proteins on pulmonary function and airway responsiveness in primates. The results of this study show for the first time that installation of major basic protein (MBP) directly into the trachea of primates results in a significant and dose-related increase in airway responsiveness to inhaled methacholine. Furthermore, MBP and eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) induce a transient bronchoconstriction immediately after instillation that resolves by 1 h postinstillation. In contrast, instillation of other eosinophil granule proteins had no effect on airway responsiveness or pulmonary function. These data indicate a direct role of the eosinophil in the pathogenesis of airway hyperresponsiveness. We suggest that the MBP of human eosinophils has an effector role in the pathogenesis of airway hyperresponsiveness which may involve active interaction with resident airway tissue cells. MBP may also mediate altered lung function in various inflammatory lung diseases associated with pulmonary eosinophilia.

Source: Journal of Clinical Investigation

DOI: 10.1172/jci115155

Authors: R H Gundel, L G Letts, G J Gleich

Institutions: Boehringer Ingelheim (United States), Mayo Clinic

Language: English

Topic: Asthma and respiratory diseases

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Center for Research Resources