Release of ATP in the lung evoked by inhalation of irritant gases in rats.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) can be released into the extracellular milieu from various types of cells in response to a wide range of physical or chemical stresses. In the respiratory tract, extracellular ATP is recognized as an important signal molecule and trigger of airway inflammation. Chlorine (Cl), sulfur dioxide (SO), and ammonia (NH) are potent irritant gases and common industrial air pollutants due to their widespread uses as chemical agents.

Airway Exposure to 1,3-Beta-d-Glucan Induces Airway Hyperresponsiveness in Guinea Pigs.

1,3-Beta-d-glucan (β-glucan) is a component of mold cell walls and is frequently found in fungi and house dust mites. The studies of β-glucan are inconsistent, although it has been implicated in airway adverse responses. This study was carried out to determine whether airway hyperresponsiveness was seen 24 h after airway exposure to β-glucan in guinea pigs.

Involvement of Capsaicin-Sensitive Lung Vagal Neurons and TRPA1 Receptors in Airway Hypersensitivity Induced by 1,3-β-D-Glucan in Anesthetized Rats.

Airway exposure to 1,3-β-D-glucan (β-glucan), an essential component of the cell wall of several pathogenic fungi, causes various adverse responses, such as pulmonary inflammation and airway hypersensitivity. The former response has been intensively investigated; however, the mechanism underlying β-glucan-induced airway hypersensitivity is unknown. Capsaicin-sensitive lung vagal (CSLV) afferents are very chemosensitive and stimulated by various insults to the lungs.

Hypersensitivity of Airway Reflexes Induced by Hydrogen Sulfide: Role of TRPA1 Receptors.

The activation of capsaicin-sensitive lung vagal (CSLV) afferents can elicit airway reflexes. Hypersensitivity of these afferents is known to contribute to the airway hypersensitivity during airway inflammation. Hydrogen sulfide (HS) has been suggested as a potential therapeutic agent for airway hypersensitivity diseases, such as asthma, because of its relaxing effect on airway smooth muscle and anti-inflammatory effect.