Publications by authors named "Akira M deFreytas"
Neutrophil elastase increases MUC4 expression in normal human bronchial epithelial cells.
Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol
April 2003
Article Synopsis
- In chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, the airway epithelium is repeatedly exposed to neutrophil elastase, which influences the extent of epithelial damage or healing.
- Neutrophil elastase enhances the levels of MUC4, a mucin linked to cell signaling pathways involving ErbB receptors, particularly the epidermal growth factor receptor.
- This increase in MUC4 expression is due to an extension of its mRNA stability, leading to greater MUC4 glycoprotein production, suggesting a role in promoting epithelial repair in response to inflammation.