[Alternation of ion transport of airway epithelium by eicosanoids].

BACKGROUND

Airway surface liquid is thought to be regulated by the ion transport processes across the airway epithelium in a vectorial manner. Short circuit current (Isc) measured by Ussing chamber is an indication of electric permeability because of mutually related transportation of amount of ion between apical and basolateral membrane.

METHODS

Guinea pig trachea was mounted on Ussing chamber and short-circuited current was determined continuously. After basolateral application of eicosanoids such as PGD2 and LTC4/LTD4/LTE4, Ramatroban, CRTH2 receptor antagonist and Pranlucast, LT receptor antagonist was added from basolateral side. A typical Cl-channel blocker, NPPB, was added from apical side.

RESULTS

Isc were increased after basolateral application of eicosanoids. These effects were partly inhibited by each antagonist. Cl- channel blocker suppressed effects of each eicosanoids.

CONCLUSION

Eicosanoids alter the ion transport mechanism via chloride channels on the airway epithelium that can be blocked by those antagonists.