Epithelium-dependent modulation of responsiveness of airways from caveolin-1 knockout mice is mediated through cyclooxygenase-2 and 5-lipoxygenase.

Background And Purpose: Acute silencing of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) modulates receptor-mediated contraction of airway smooth muscle. Moreover, COX-2- and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO)-derived prostaglandin and leukotriene biosynthesis can influence smooth muscle reactivity. COX-2 half-life can be prolonged through association with Cav-1.