Integrin and GPCR Crosstalk in the Regulation of ASM Contraction Signaling in Asthma. (29th September 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Teoh, Chun Ming; Tam, John Kit Chung; Tran, Thai
• Other Names: Amrani Yassine Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of allergy. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-09-29
• Subjects: Allergy -- Periodicals; Immunologic diseases -- Periodicals; Allergy and Immunology; Hypersensitivity; Immune System Diseases; Allergy; Immunologic diseases; Electronic journals; Periodical; Periodicals; 616.97
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/341282
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1687-9783

Abstract

Abstract : Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is one of the cardinal features of asthma. Contraction of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells that line the airway wall is thought to influence aspects of AHR, resulting in excessive narrowing or occlusion of the airway. ASM contraction is primarily controlled by agonists that bind G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), which are expressed on ASM. Integrins also play a role in regulating ASM contraction signaling. As therapies for asthma are based on symptom relief, better understanding of the crosstalk between GPCRs and integrins holds good promise for the design of more effective therapies that target the underlying cellular and molecular mechanism that governs AHR. In this paper, we will review current knowledge about integrins and GPCRs in their regulation of ASM contraction signaling and discuss the emerging concept of crosstalk between the two and the implication of this crosstalk on the development of agents that target AHR.