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Ford NL, Tan S, Deman P. An investigation of radiation damage in rat lungs following dual-energy micro-CT imaging. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2019. [DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/aaf240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Chetty A, Sharda A, Warburton R, Weinberg EO, Dong J, Fang M, Sahagian GG, Chen T, Xue C, Castellot JJ, Haydon PG, Nielsen HC. A purinergic P2Y6 receptor agonist prodrug modulates airway inflammation, remodeling, and hyperreactivity in a mouse model of asthma. J Asthma Allergy 2018; 11:159-171. [PMID: 30122959 PMCID: PMC6078081 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s151849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Purinergic receptors control cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, inflammation, and cytokine secretion. Increased expression of specific purinergic receptors is reported in asthma. The role of purinergic P2Y6 receptors (P2Y6R) in asthma is controversial. Hypothesis P2Y6R activation in asthma improves pulmonary function and reduces inflammation and smooth muscle amount. Methods Female mice (C57/BL6, age 30 days) were randomly assigned to receive intranasal house dust mite (HDM) antigen (40 or 80 µg) or saline, 5 days/week, for 6 weeks. Randomly selected subgroups received intraperitoneal P2Y6R agonist prodrug (GC021109; 10 or 100 µg/kg weight/dose) simultaneously with HDM. After 6 weeks, lung function was measured. Lung lavage fluid (LLF) was used to measure total cell count, total protein, and cytokines. Immunohistochemistry for alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was done. Airway wall thickness was measured on micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) images. Results Pulmonary function testing revealed a HDM dose-dependent airway hyperresponsiveness. Airway resistance was increased 2-fold while compliance was decreased by 50% at the higher HDM dose (P<0.05). GC021109 prevented these changes. HDM-exposed mice had elevated inflammatory cell and total protein levels in LLF which were prevented by GC021109 (P<0.05). HDM mice also had elevated LLF levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-12, granulocyte colony stimulating factor, chemokine (C-X-C) motif ligand 1, and leukemia inhibitory factor that were reduced by GC021109 with a dose-dependent pattern. HDM mice had increased peribronchial and perivascular inflammatory cell infiltration and increased α-SMA; these changes were absent with GC021109. Airway wall thickness measured on micro-CT images was increased after HDM exposure and significantly reduced by GC021109 treatment. Conclusion The P2Y6R prodrug GC021109 inhibited allergen-induced changes in pulmonary function, inflammatory responses, and airway and vascular smooth muscle mass. P2Y6R activation may be an effective therapeutic maintenance strategy in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Chetty
- Department of Pediatrics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA,
| | - Azeem Sharda
- Department of Pediatrics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA,
| | - Rod Warburton
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen O Weinberg
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jinghui Dong
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Min Fang
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - G Gary Sahagian
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tiangmeng Chen
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chang Xue
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John J Castellot
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.,Graduate Program in Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA,
| | - Philip G Haydon
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heber C Nielsen
- Department of Pediatrics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA, .,Graduate Program in Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA,
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Işık S, Karaman M, Micili SÇ, Çağlayan-Sözmen Ş, Bağrıyanık HA, Arıkan-Ayyıldız Z, Uzuner N, Karaman Ö. Sinomenine ameliorates the airway remodelling, apoptosis of airway epithelial cells, and Th2 immune response in a murine model of chronic asthma. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2018; 46:67-75. [PMID: 28778746 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sinomenine (SIN), an alkaloid isolated from the root of Sinomenium acutum which has a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammation, immunosuppression and anti-angiogenesis. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of SIN on airway remodelling, epithelial apoptosis, and T Helper (Th)-2 derived cytokine levels in a murine model of chronic asthma. METHODS Twenty-two BALB/c mice were divided into four groups; I (control), II (placebo), III, IV. Mice in groups III and IV received the SIN (100mg/kg), and dexamethasone (1mg/kg) respectively. Epithelium thickness, sub-epithelial smooth muscle thickness, number of mast and goblet cells of samples isolated from the lung were measured. Immunohistochemical scorings of the lung tissue for matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEG-F), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick endlabeling (TUNEL) and cysteine-dependent aspartate-specific proteases (caspase)-3 were determined. IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, Nitric oxide in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and ovalbumin-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E in serum were quantified by standard ELISA protocols. RESULTS The dose of 100mg/kg SIN treatment provided beneficial effects on all of the histopathological findings of airway remodelling compared to placebo (p<0.05). All cytokine levels in BALF and serum and immunohistochemical scores were significantly lower in 100mg/kg SIN treated group compared to the placebo (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggested that the dose of 100mg/kg SIN improved all histopathological changes of airway remodelling and its beneficial effects might be related to modulating Th-2 derived cytokines and the inhibition of apoptosis of airway epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Işık
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - M Karaman
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Microbiology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - S Ç Micili
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Histology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ş Çağlayan-Sözmen
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - H A Bağrıyanık
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Histology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Z Arıkan-Ayyıldız
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - N Uzuner
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ö Karaman
- Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Izmir, Turkey
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Ford NL, McCaig L, Jeklin A, Lewis JF, Veldhuizen RAW, Holdsworth DW, Drangova M. A respiratory-gated micro-CT comparison of respiratory patterns in free-breathing and mechanically ventilated rats. Physiol Rep 2017; 5:5/2/e13074. [PMID: 28100723 PMCID: PMC5269405 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aim to quantify the differences in lung metrics measured in free-breathing and mechanically ventilated rodents using respiratory-gated micro-computed tomography. Healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with ketamine/xylazine and scanned with a retrospective respiratory gating protocol on a GE Locus Ultra micro-CT scanner. Each animal was scanned while free-breathing, then intubated and mechanically ventilated (MV) and rescanned with a standard ventilation protocol (56 bpm, 8 mL/kg and PEEP of 5 cm H2O) and again with a ventilation protocol that approximates the free-breathing parameters (88 bpm, 2.14 mL/kg and PEEP of 2.5 cm H2O). Images were reconstructed representing inspiration and end expiration with 0.15 mm voxel spacing. Image-based measurements of the lung lengths, airway diameters, lung volume, and air content were compared and used to calculate the functional residual capacity (FRC) and tidal volume. Images acquired during MV appeared darker in the airspaces and the airways appeared larger. Image-based measurements showed an increase in lung volume and air content during standard MV, for both respiratory phases, compared with matched MV and free-breathing. Comparisons of the functional metrics showed an increase in FRC for mechanically ventilated rats, but only the standard MV exhibited a significantly higher tidal volume than free-breathing or matched MV Although standard mechanical ventilation protocols may be useful in promoting consistent respiratory patterns, the amount of air in the lungs is higher than in free-breathing animals. Matching the respiratory patterns with the free-breathing case allowed similar lung morphology and physiology measurements while reducing the variability in the measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy L Ford
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada .,Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lynda McCaig
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Jeklin
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James F Lewis
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruud A W Veldhuizen
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David W Holdsworth
- Imaging Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Medical Imaging, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Drangova
- Imaging Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Medical Imaging, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Beneficial effects of ursodeoxycholic acid via inhibition of airway remodelling, apoptosis of airway epithelial cells, and Th2 immune response in murine model of chronic asthma. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2017; 45:339-349. [PMID: 28256288 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In previous studies, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and immunomodulatory effects of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on liver diseases have been shown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of UDCA on airway remodelling, epithelial apoptosis, and T Helper (Th)-2 derived cytokine levels in a murine model of chronic asthma. METHODS Twenty-seven BALB/c mice were divided into five groups; PBS-Control, OVA-Placebo, OVA-50mg/kg UDCA, OVA-150mg/kg UDCA, OVA-Dexamethasone. Mice in groups OVA-50mg/kg UDCA, OVA-150mg/kg UDCA, OVA-Dexamethasone received the UDCA (50mg/kg), UDCA (150mg/kg), and dexamethasone, respectively. Epithelium thickness, sub-epithelial smooth muscle thickness, number of mast and goblet cells of samples isolated from the lung were measured. Immunohistochemical scorings of the lung tissue for matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEG-F), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick endlabeling (TUNEL) and cysteine-dependent aspartate-specific proteases (caspase)-3 were determined. IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, Nitric oxide, ovalbumin-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels were quantified. RESULTS The dose of 150mg/kg UDCA treatment led to lower epithelial thickness, sub-epithelial smooth muscle thickness, goblet and mast cell numbers compared to placebo. Except for MMP-9 and TUNEL all immunohistochemical scores were similar in both UDCA treated groups and the placebo. All cytokine levels were significantly lower in group IV compared to the placebo. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggested that the dose of 150mg/kg UDCA improved all histopathological changes of airway remodelling and its beneficial effects might be related to modulating Th-2 derived cytokines and the inhibition of apoptosis of airway epithelial cells.
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Lilburn DML, Tatler AL, Six JS, Lesbats C, Habgood A, Porte J, Hughes-Riley T, Shaw DE, Jenkins G, Meersmann T. Investigating lung responses with functional hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI in an ex vivo rat model of asthma. Magn Reson Med 2016; 76:1224-35. [PMID: 26507239 PMCID: PMC5026173 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.26003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Revised: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Asthma is a disease of increasing worldwide importance that calls for new investigative methods. Ex vivo lung tissue is being increasingly used to study functional respiratory parameters independent of confounding systemic considerations but also to reduce animal numbers and associated research costs. In this work, a straightforward laboratory method is advanced to probe dynamic changes in gas inhalation patterns by using an ex vivo small animal ovalbumin (OVA) model of human asthma. METHODS Hyperpolarized (hp) (129) Xe was actively inhaled by the excised lungs exposed to a constant pressure differential that mimicked negative pleural cavity pressure. The method enabled hp (129) Xe MRI of airway responsiveness to intravenous methacholine (MCh) and airway challenge reversal through salbutamol. RESULTS Significant differences were demonstrated between control and OVA challenged animals on global lung hp (129) Xe gas inhalation with P < 0.05 at MCh dosages above 460 μg. Spatial mapping of the regional hp gas distribution revealed an approximately three-fold increase in heterogeneity for the asthma model organs. CONCLUSION The experimental results from this proof of concept work suggest that the ex vivo hp noble gas imaging arrangement and the applied image analysis methodology may be useful as an adjunct to current diagnostic techniques. Magn Reson Med 76:1224-1235, 2016. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M L Lilburn
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda L Tatler
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham University Hospitals, City Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph S Six
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Clémentine Lesbats
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Habgood
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham University Hospitals, City Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Porte
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham University Hospitals, City Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Theodore Hughes-Riley
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dominick E Shaw
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham University Hospitals, City Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gisli Jenkins
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham University Hospitals, City Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Meersmann
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
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Bao HR, Liu XJ, Li YL, Men X, Zeng XL. Sinomenine attenuates airway inflammation and remodeling in a mouse model of asthma. Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:2415-22. [PMID: 26820806 PMCID: PMC4768961 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.4816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is an inflammatory disease that involves airway inflammation and remodeling. Sinomenine (SIN) has been demonstrated to have immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of SIN on airway inflammation and remodeling in an asthma mouse model and observe the effects of SIN on the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) pathway and oxidative stress. Female BALB/c mice were sensitized by repetitive ovalbumin (OVA) challenge for 6 weeks in order to develop a mouse model of asthma. OVA-sensitized animals received SIN (25, 50 and 75 mg/kg) or dexamethasone (2 mg/kg). A blank control group received saline only. The area of smooth muscle and collagen, levels of mucus secretion and inflammatory cell infiltration were evaluated 24 h subsequent to the final OVA challenge. mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β1 and CTGF were determined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistology, respectively. The indicators of oxidative stress were detected by spectrophotometry. SIN significantly reduced allergen-induced increases in smooth muscle thickness, mucous gland hypertrophy, goblet cell hyperplasia, collagen deposition and eosinophilic inflammation. The levels of TGF-β1 and CTGF mRNA and protein were significantly reduced in the lungs of mice treated with SIN. Additionally, the total antioxidant capacity was increased in lungs following treatment with SIN. The malondialdehyde content and myeloperoxidase activities in the lungs from OVA-sensitized mice were significantly inhibited by SIN. In conclusion, SIN may inhibit airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma mouse models, and may have therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Rong Bao
- Department of Gerontal Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Ju Liu
- Department of Gerontal Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Lin Li
- Department of Rheumatoid Bone, Chinese Medicine Hospital of Lanzhou City, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Men
- Department of Gerontal Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Li Zeng
- Department of Gerontal Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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Ma X, Prakash J, Ruscitti F, Glasl S, Stellari FF, Villetti G, Ntziachristos V. Assessment of asthmatic inflammation using hybrid fluorescence molecular tomography-x-ray computed tomography. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2016; 21:15009. [PMID: 26803669 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.21.1.015009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng Ma
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, Neuherberg, D-85746, GermanybTechnische Universität München, Chair for Biological Imaging, Ismaninger Street 22, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Jaya Prakash
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, Neuherberg, D-85746, GermanybTechnische Universität München, Chair for Biological Imaging, Ismaninger Street 22, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Francesca Ruscitti
- University of Parma, Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational Science, via del Taglio 10, Parma, 43126, Italy
| | - Sarah Glasl
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, Neuherberg, D-85746, GermanybTechnische Universität München, Chair for Biological Imaging, Ismaninger Street 22, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Fabio Franco Stellari
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A, Largo Francesco Belloli 11/A, Parma, 43122, Italy
| | - Gino Villetti
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A, Largo Francesco Belloli 11/A, Parma, 43122, Italy
| | - Vasilis Ntziachristos
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Ingolstaedter Landstrasse 1, Neuherberg, D-85746, GermanybTechnische Universität München, Chair for Biological Imaging, Ismaninger Street 22, Munich 81675, Germany
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McLaughlin RA, Noble PB, Sampson DD. Optical coherence tomography in respiratory science and medicine: from airways to alveoli. Physiology (Bethesda) 2015; 29:369-80. [PMID: 25180266 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00002.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography is a rapidly maturing optical imaging technology, enabling study of the in vivo structure of lung tissue at a scale of tens of micrometers. It has been used to assess the layered structure of airway walls, quantify both airway lumen caliber and compliance, and image individual alveoli. This article provides an overview of the technology and reviews its capability to provide new insights into respiratory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A McLaughlin
- Optical & Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, School of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia;
| | - Peter B Noble
- School of Anatomy, Physiology & Human Biology, and Centre for Neonatal Research & Education, School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; and
| | - David D Sampson
- Optical & Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, School of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation & Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Gammon ST, Foje N, Brewer EM, Owers E, Downs CA, Budde MD, Leevy WM, Helms MN. Preclinical anatomical, molecular, and functional imaging of the lung with multiple modalities. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2014; 306:L897-914. [DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00007.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo imaging is an important tool for preclinical studies of lung function and disease. The widespread availability of multimodal animal imaging systems and the rapid rate of diagnostic contrast agent development have empowered researchers to noninvasively study lung function and pulmonary disorders. Investigators can identify, track, and quantify biological processes over time. In this review, we highlight the fundamental principles of bioluminescence, fluorescence, planar X-ray, X-ray computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear imaging modalities (such as positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography) that have been successfully employed for the study of lung function and pulmonary disorders in a preclinical setting. The major principles, benefits, and applications of each imaging modality and technology are reviewed. Limitations and the future prospective of multimodal imaging in pulmonary physiology are also discussed. In vivo imaging bridges molecular biological studies, drug design and discovery, and the imaging field with modern medical practice, and, as such, will continue to be a mainstay in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth T. Gammon
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Nathan Foje
- Department of Biological Sciences, Notre Dame Integrated Imaging Facility, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - Elizabeth M. Brewer
- Department of Pediatrics Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth Owers
- Department of Biological Sciences, Notre Dame Integrated Imaging Facility, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - Charles A. Downs
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Matthew D. Budde
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - W. Matthew Leevy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Notre Dame Integrated Imaging Facility, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - My N. Helms
- Department of Pediatrics Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Alrifai M, Marsh LM, Dicke T, Kılıç A, Conrad ML, Renz H, Garn H. Compartmental and temporal dynamics of chronic inflammation and airway remodelling in a chronic asthma mouse model. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85839. [PMID: 24465740 PMCID: PMC3897544 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic asthma is associated with chronic airway inflammation and progressive airway remodelling. However, the dynamics of the development of these features and their spontaneous and pharmacological reversibility are still poorly understood. We have therefore investigated the dynamics of airway remodelling and repair in an experimental asthma model and studied how pharmacological intervention affects these processes. METHODS Using BALB/c mice, the kinetics of chronic asthma progression and resolution were characterised in absence and presence of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) treatment. Airway inflammation and remodelling was assessed by the analysis of bronchoalveolar and peribronichal inflammatory cell infiltrate, goblet cell hyperplasia, collagen deposition and smooth muscle thickening. RESULTS Chronic allergen exposure resulted in early (goblet cell hyperplasia) and late remodelling (collagen deposition and smooth muscle thickening). After four weeks of allergen cessation eosinophilic inflammation, goblet cell hyperplasia and collagen deposition were resolved, full resolution of lymphocyte inflammation and smooth muscle thickening was only observed after eight weeks. ICS therapy when started before the full establishment of chronic asthma reduced the development of lung inflammation, decreased goblet cell hyperplasia and collagen deposition, but did not affect smooth muscle thickening. These effects of ICS on airway remodelling were maintained for a further four weeks even when therapy was discontinued. CONCLUSIONS Utilising a chronic model of experimental asthma we have shown that repeated allergen exposure induces reversible airway remodelling and inflammation in mice. Therapeutic intervention with ICS was partially effective in inhibiting the transition from acute to chronic asthma by reducing airway inflammation and remodelling but was ineffective in preventing smooth muscle hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Alrifai
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
| | - Leigh M. Marsh
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - Tanja Dicke
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
| | - Ayse Kılıç
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
| | - Melanie L. Conrad
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
| | - Harald Renz
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
| | - Holger Garn
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry - Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University Marburg, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Marburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Bianchi A, Ozier A, Ousova O, Raffard G, Crémillieux Y. Ultrashort-TE MRI longitudinal study and characterization of a chronic model of asthma in mice: inflammation and bronchial remodeling assessment. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2013; 26:1451-1459. [PMID: 23761222 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.2975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/16/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), bronchial inflammation and remodeling. The great improvements in (1)H MRI ultrashort-TE (UTE) sequences in the last decade have allowed lung images with high-resolution and good signal-to-noise ratio to be obtained in parenchymal tissues. In this article, we present a UTE (1)H MRI high-resolution study of a chronic model of asthma in mice with the aim to longitudinally assess the main features of asthma using a fully noninvasive approach. Balb/c mice (n = 6) were sensitized with ovalbumin over a period of 75 days. The control group (n = 3) received normal saline on the same days. MRI acquisitions were performed on days 0, 38 and 78 to study the inflammatory volumes and bronchial remodeling (peribronchial signal intensity index, PBSI). Plethysmographic studies were performed on days 0, 39 and 79 to assess BHR to methacholine using the enhanced pause (Penh) ratio. The average inflammatory volume measured by MRI in the ovalbumin group (15.6 ± 2.4 μL) was increased significantly relative to control mice (-0.3 ± 0.7 μL) on day 38. The inflammatory volume was larger (34.2 ± 3.1 μL) on day 78 in the ovalbumin group. PBSI was significantly higher in the ovalbumin group on day 78 (1.53 ± 0.08) relative to the control group (1.16 ± 0.10), but not on day 38. After sensitization, asthmatic mice presented BHR to methacholine on days 39 and 79. Penh ratios correlated significantly with the inflammatory volume on day 39 and with the PBSI on day 79. This study shows, for the first time, that high-resolution UTE (1)H MRI of the lungs may allow the noninvasive quantification of peribronchial eosinophilic inflammation with airways occlusion by mucus and of bronchial remodeling in a murine asthma model that correlates with functional parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bianchi
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Université Bordeaux Segalen, Bordeaux, France; Centre de Résonance Magnétique des Systèmes Biologiques, UMR 5536, Université Bordeaux Segalen, Bordeaux, France
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CT attenuation of the bronchial wall in patients with asthma: comparison with geometric parameters and correlation with function and histologic characteristics. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2013; 199:1226-33. [PMID: 23169712 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.11.8396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purposes of this study were to compare airway wall attenuation in subjects with asthma and subjects without asthma; to correlate this value with pulmonary function test results, standard bronchial CT parameters, and immunohistologic data; and to identify CT parameters that influence obstructive indexes. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Bronchial airway wall attenuation was averaged over four bronchi in 27 subjects with asthma and 15 control subjects without asthma. The following five standard bronchial parameters also were assessed: lumen area, wall area, wall thickness, wall-to-lumen area ratio, and wall-to-total area ratio (wall area percentage). These parameters were compared between groups and correlated with functional data. Ability to predict patient group with these parameters was determined by comparison of receiver operating characteristic curves and areas under the curve. The influence of the parameters on obstructive indexes was assessed by multivariate analysis. Correlations between wall attenuation value and histologic data were studied in 11 patients with asthma. RESULTS Wall attenuation value was greater in patients with asthma (-322 ± 79 HU) than in control subjects (-463 ± 69 HU). Correlation coefficients of wall attenuation value with functional obstructive parameters were significant and greater than those obtained for any other CT parameter. The area under the curve of wall attenuation value was greater than that of bronchial lumen area and bronchial wall area. In the model of multiple regression that included wall attenuation value and wall-to-total area ratio, wall attenuation value was the only measurement that significantly influenced obstructive indexes (R(2) = 0.39-0.43). Wall attenuation value correlated with mast cell infiltration. CONCLUSION Compared with the usual bronchial CT parameters, airway wall attenuation better differentiates patients with asthma from control subjects and better correlates with obstruction.
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Girodet PO, Ozier A, Carvalho G, Ilina O, Ousova O, Gadeau AP, Begueret H, Wulff H, Marthan R, Bradding P, Berger P. Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel-3.1 blocker TRAM-34 attenuates airway remodeling and eosinophilia in a murine asthma model. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2012. [PMID: 23204391 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2012-0103oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Key features of asthma include bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), eosinophilic airway inflammation, and bronchial remodeling, characterized by subepithelial collagen deposition, airway fibrosis, and increased bronchial smooth muscle (BSM) mass. The calcium-activated K(+) channel K(Ca)3.1 is expressed by many cells implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma, and is involved in both inflammatory and remodeling responses in a number of tissues. The specific K(Ca)3.1 blocker 5-[(2-chlorophenyl)(diphenyl)methyl]-1H-pyrazole (TRAM-34) attenuates BSM cell proliferation, and both mast cell and fibrocyte recruitment in vitro. We aimed to examine the effects of K(Ca)3.1 blockade on BSM remodeling, airway inflammation, and BHR in a murine model of chronic asthma. BALB/c mice were sensitized with intraperitoneal ovalbumin (OVA) on Days 0 and 14, and then challenged with intranasal OVA during Days 14-75. OVA-sensitized/challenged mice received TRAM-34 (120 mg/kg/day, subcutaneous) from Days -7 to 75 (combined treatment), Days -7 to 20 (preventive treatment), or Days 21 to 75 (curative treatment). Untreated mice received daily injections of vehicle (n = 8 per group). Bronchial remodeling was assessed by histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Inflammation was evaluated using bronchoalveolar lavage and flow cytometry. We also determined BHR in both conscious and anesthetized mice via plethysmography. We demonstrated that curative treatment with TRAM-34 abolishes BSM remodeling and subbasement collagen deposition, and attenuates airway eosinophilia. Although curative treatment alone did not significantly reduce BHR, the combined treatment attenuated nonspecific BHR to methacholine. This study indicates that K(Ca)3.1 blockade could provide a new therapeutic strategy in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Olivier Girodet
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, U1034, De´partement de Pharmacologie, CIC 0005, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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Bronchial wall thickness measurement in computed tomography: Effect of intravenous contrast agent and reconstruction kernel. Eur J Radiol 2012; 81:3606-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2012.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2011] [Revised: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Lederlin M, Ozier A, Dournes G, Ousova O, Girodet PO, Begueret H, Marthan R, Montaudon M, Laurent F, Berger P. In vivo micro-CT assessment of airway remodeling in a flexible OVA-sensitized murine model of asthma. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48493. [PMID: 23119036 PMCID: PMC3484051 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Airway remodeling is a major pathological feature of asthma. Up to now, its quantification still requires invasive methods. In this study, we aimed at determining whether in vivo micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is able to demonstrate allergen-induced airway remodeling in a flexible mouse model of asthma. Sixty Balb/c mice were challenged intranasally with ovalbumin or saline at 3 different endpoints (Days 35, 75, and 110). All mice underwent plethysmography at baseline and just prior to respiratory-gated micro-CT. Mice were then sacrificed to assess bronchoalveolar lavage and lung histology. From micro-CT images (voxel size = 46×46×46 µm), the numerical values of total lung attenuation, peribronchial attenuation (PBA), and PBA normalized by total lung attenuation were extracted. Each parameter was compared between OVA and control mice and correlation coefficients were calculated between micro-CT and histological data. As compared to control animals, ovalbumin-sensitized mice exhibited inflammation alone (Day 35), remodeling alone (Day 110) or both inflammation and remodeling (Day 75). Normalized PBA was significantly greater in mice exhibiting bronchial remodeling either alone or in combination with inflammation. Normalized PBA correlated with various remodeling markers such as bronchial smooth muscle size or peribronchial fibrosis. These findings suggest that micro-CT may help monitor remodeling non-invasively in asthmatic mice when testing new drugs targeting airway remodeling in pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Lederlin
- Univ. Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-thoracique de Bordeaux, France.
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De Langhe E, Vande Velde G, Hostens J, Himmelreich U, Nemery B, Luyten FP, Vanoirbeek J, Lories RJ. Quantification of lung fibrosis and emphysema in mice using automated micro-computed tomography. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43123. [PMID: 22912805 PMCID: PMC3418271 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2012] [Accepted: 07/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In vivo high-resolution micro-computed tomography allows for longitudinal image-based measurements in animal models of lung disease. The combination of repetitive high resolution imaging with fully automated quantitative image analysis in mouse models of lung fibrosis lung benefits preclinical research. This study aimed to develop and validate such an automated micro-computed tomography analysis algorithm for quantification of aerated lung volume in mice; an indicator of pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema severity. Methodology Mice received an intratracheal instillation of bleomycin (n = 8), elastase (0.25U elastase n = 9, 0.5U elastase n = 8) or saline control (n = 6 for fibrosis, n = 5 for emphysema). A subset of mice was scanned without intervention, to evaluate potential radiation-induced toxicity (n = 4). Some bleomycin-instilled mice were treated with imatinib for proof of concept (n = 8). Mice were scanned weekly, until four weeks after induction, when they underwent pulmonary function testing, lung histology and collagen quantification. Aerated lung volumes were calculated with our automated algorithm. Principal Findings Our automated image-based aerated lung volume quantification method is reproducible with low intra-subject variability. Bleomycin-treated mice had significantly lower scan-derived aerated lung volumes, compared to controls. Aerated lung volume correlated with the histopathological fibrosis score and total lung collagen content. Inversely, a dose-dependent increase in lung volume was observed in elastase-treated mice. Serial scanning of individual mice is feasible and visualized dynamic disease progression. No radiation-induced toxicity was observed. Three-dimensional images provided critical topographical information. Conclusions We report on a high resolution in vivo micro-computed tomography image analysis algorithm that runs fully automated and allows quantification of aerated lung volume in mice. This method is reproducible with low inherent measurement variability. We show that it is a reliable quantitative tool to investigate experimental lung fibrosis and emphysema in mice. Its non-invasive nature has the unique benefit to allow dynamic 4D evaluation of disease processes and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen De Langhe
- Laboratory for Skeletal Development and Joint Disorders, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical NMR Unit/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical NMR Unit/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benoit Nemery
- Research Unit of Lung Toxicology, Department of Public Health, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank P. Luyten
- Laboratory for Skeletal Development and Joint Disorders, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Vanoirbeek
- Research Unit of Lung Toxicology, Department of Public Health, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rik J. Lories
- Laboratory for Skeletal Development and Joint Disorders, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Airway Remodelling in Asthma and COPD: Findings, Similarities, and Differences Using Quantitative CT. Pulm Med 2012; 2012:670414. [PMID: 22448324 PMCID: PMC3289905 DOI: 10.1155/2012/670414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Revised: 11/10/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway remodelling is a well-established feature in asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), secondary to chronic airway inflammation. The structural changes found on pathological examination of remodelled airway wall have been shown to display similarities but also differences. Computed tomography (CT) is today a remarkable tool to assess airway wall morphology in vivo since submillimetric acquisitions over the whole lung volume could be obtained allowing 3D evaluation. Recently, CT-derived indices extracted from CT images have been described and are thought to assess airway remodelling. This may help understand the complex mechanism underlying the remodelling process, which is still not fully understood. This paper summarizes the various methods described to quantify airway remodelling in asthma and COPD using CT, and similarities and differences between both diseases will be emphasized.
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In Vivo Computed Tomography as a Research Tool to Investigate Asthma and COPD: Where Do We Stand? J Allergy (Cairo) 2012; 2012:972479. [PMID: 22287977 PMCID: PMC3263629 DOI: 10.1155/2012/972479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) is a clinical tool widely used to assess and followup asthma and chonic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in humans. Strong efforts have been made the last decade to improve this technique as a quantitative research tool. Using semiautomatic softwares, quantification of airway wall thickness, lumen area, and bronchial wall density are available from large to intermediate conductive airways. Skeletonization of the bronchial tree can be built to assess its three-dimensional geometry. Lung parenchyma density can be analysed as a surrogate of small airway disease and emphysema. Since resident cells involve airway wall and lung parenchyma abnormalities, CT provides an accurate and reliable research tool to assess their role in vivo. This litterature review highlights the most recent advances made to assess asthma and COPD with CT, and also their drawbacks and the place of CT in clarifying the complex physiopathology of both diseases.
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The pivotal role of airway smooth muscle in asthma pathophysiology. J Allergy (Cairo) 2011; 2011:742710. [PMID: 22220184 PMCID: PMC3246780 DOI: 10.1155/2011/742710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is characterized by the association of airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), inflammation, and remodelling. The aim of the present article is to review the pivotal role of airway smooth muscle (ASM) in the pathophysiology of asthma. ASM is the main effector of AHR. The mechanisms of AHR in asthma may involve a larger release of contractile mediators and/or a lower release of relaxant mediators, an improved ASM cell excitation/contraction coupling, and/or an alteration in the contraction/load coupling. Beyond its contractile function, ASM is also involved in bronchial inflammation and remodelling. Whereas ASM is a target of the inflammatory process, it can also display proinflammatory and immunomodulatory functions, through its synthetic properties and the expression of a wide range of cell surface molecules. ASM remodelling represents a key feature of asthmatic bronchial remodelling. ASM also plays a role in promoting complementary airway structural alterations, in particular by its synthetic function.
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Models and approaches to understand the role of airway remodelling in disease. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2011; 24:478-86. [PMID: 21824523 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2011.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2011] [Revised: 07/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Airway remodelling is a collective term for changes in the amount or organisation of the cellular and molecular constituents of the airway wall. Remodelling occurs in and is associated with the pathophysiology of airways diseases including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The remodelling that occurs in these diseases exhibits both shared and distinct features. Remodelling is generally considered to be deleterious to airway function but recent studies also indicate potential protective effects. However, the true impact of different aspects of the remodelling process on lung function, both negative and positive, is poorly understood. In addition, the genetic susceptibility and processes by which environmental insults drive the cell and molecular events which result in airway remodelling and the potential for therapeutic reversibility are also incompletely understood. The last 10-15 years has seen the development of animal models of airway remodelling which have been refined and modified as new factors such as exacerbations and early life influences have been recognised as being of importance. In addition, invertebrate models have been put forward and complex in vitro culture systems and lung slice preparations developed. In parallel, imaging technology has developed to an extent where it is feasible using a combination of techniques to image structural components, cells and proteins in the airway wall as well as to analyse biological processes, cell and receptor activation non-invasively over time. The integration of data from in vivo and in vitro models together with use of imaging techniques in man and animals should allow validation of models, further our understanding of the pathophysiology of airway remodelling and potentially improve predictive accuracy for the translation of novel therapeutic agents into the clinic.
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