Involvement of Epithelial Cell Apoptosis in Interstitial Lung Diseases

DOI Web Site 77 References
  • Kuwano Kazuyoshi
    Division of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine

Search this article

Description

Lung epithelium is the primary site of lung damage in interstitial lung diseases. Although there are various initiating factors, the terminal stages are characterized by pulmonary fibrosis. Conventional therapy consisting of glucocorticoids or immunosuppressive drugs is usually ineffective. Epithelial cell apoptosis have been considered to be initial events in interstitial lung diseases. The death receptor-mediated signaling pathway directly induces caspase activation and apoptosis. Other stresses induce the release of cytochrome from mitochondria and caspase activation. Endoplasmic reticulum stress also induces apoptosis. Epithelial cell death is followed by remodeling processes, which consist of epithelial and fibroblast activation, cytokine production, activation of the coagulation pathway, neoangiogenesis, re-epithelialization and fibrosis. Epithelial and mesenchymal interaction plays important roles in these processes. Further understanding of apoptosis signaling may lead to effective strategies against devastating lung diseases. We review the role of epithelial cell apoptosis in the molecular mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis.<br>

Journal

  • Internal Medicine

    Internal Medicine 47 (5), 345-353, 2008

    The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine

References(77)*help

See more

Keywords

Details 詳細情報について

Report a problem

Back to top