Airway remodelling: the future

摘要: The research of structural changes in airway diseases is relatively recent compared with studies on physiological or inflammatory features. In such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), alterations have been observed, as: epithelial desquamation hyperplasia; increases smooth muscle mass; angiogenesis; subepithelial collagen deposition, proteoglycans elastin content; cartilage changes; goblet cell glandular hyperplasia, addition to increased wall thickening 1. During the past months, European Respiratory Journal has published a series remodelling order review state knowledge this increasingly important domain 2–6. We learnt from that by no means single entity. It complex dynamic process multiple components, evolving differently various conditions, according type extent responses physical stimuli, probably under genetic influences modulating host response latter. vitro animal models developed study pathways involved bronchial structure induced airways allergic reactions other stimuli confirm vast heterogeneity. possible clinical significance these effects treatment are even more diverse. Hence, at stage we will need further elaborate main challenges for field help better understand mechanisms decide if, how when intervene process. Some key questions itemised table 1⇓. Here some what consider be vital remaining domains field. View table: Table 1— Remaining remodelling ### What time-course changes? Animal groups asymptomatic subjects …