Talk:SH Practical - Respiratory

2008

Treatment of COPD: a matrix perspective

Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2008;3(1):113-22.

Dunsmore SE. Source Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. sdunsmore_uk@yahoo.com

Abstract Fundamental physical properties, such as the intrinsic recoil of the lung, are governed by the extracellular matrix. The prototypical roles of the matrix proteins, collagen and elastin, in pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema have long been recognized, and much research effort has been devoted to understanding mechanisms of extracellular matrix synthesis and turnover in the lung. Yet, despite extensive knowledge of the biochemical properties of collagen and elastin, none of the present clinical strategies for treating COPD directly target the extracellular matrix. From a matrix perspective, therapeutic interventions that limit elastic fiber destruction and/or restore function to damaged alveolar units merit particular consideration as clinical strategies for treating the emphysema component of COPD. Effective treatment of the bronchiolar component of COPD requires a better understanding of the relationship between airway fibrosis and airflow obstruction. Translating basic knowledge of extracellular matrix biology into the clinical venue will be essential in the development of new approaches to COPD treatment.

PMID 18488434

http://www.dovepress.com/articles.php?article_id=568

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2528213/

1988

Morphometry of the human pulmonary acinus

Anat Rec. 1988 Apr;220(4):401-14.

Haefeli-Bleuer B, Weibel ER. Source Department of Anatomy, University of Berne, Switzerland.

Abstract

The geometry and morphometry of intraacinar airways in human lungs were studied on silicone rubber casts from two adult lungs. We defined acini as the complex of alveolated airways distal to the terminal bronchioles--that is, beginning with the first-order respiratory or transitional bronchiole. The morphological properties of pulmonary acini are described. The acinar volume averages 187 mm3 (SD +/- 79 mm3). Intraacinar airways branch dichotomously over about 9 generations (range 6-12). The internal airway diameter falls from 500 micron to 270 micron between acinar generations 0 and 10, whereas the outer diameter (including the sleeve of alveoli) remains constant at 700 micron. Towards the periphery the size of alveoli increases and clusters of alveoli become more numerous. The longitudinal path length of acinar airways (defined as the distance along the ducts from the transitional bronchiole to the alveolar sacs) averages 8.8 mm (+/- 1.4 mm). The morphometric data collected in this study are used to construct an idealized model of human acinar airways that can be related to existing models of the human bronchial tree.

PMID 3382030