Airway Mucins Inhibit Oxidative and Non-Oxidative Bacterial Killing by Human Neutrophils.

Neutrophil killing of bacteria is mediated by oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms. Oxidants are generated through the NADPH oxidase complex, whereas antimicrobial proteins and peptides rank amongst non-oxidative host defenses. Mucus hypersecretion, deficient hydration and poor clearance from the airways are prominent features of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease.

Oxidant stress suppresses CFTR expression.

Epithelial mucous membranes are repeatedly exposed to oxidants and xenobiotics. CFTR plays a role in glutathione transepithelial flux and in defining the hydration and viscoelasticity of protective mucus. We therefore hypothesized that CFTR expression and function may be modulated by oxidant stress.