Stem cells in airway smooth muscle: state of the art

Proc Am Thorac Soc. 2008 Jan 1;5(1):11-4. doi: 10.1513/pats.200704-052VS.

Abstract

Very little is known regarding the function, origin, and turnover of airway smooth muscle (ASM). In this article, we discuss the embryological development of ASM, and provide information regarding candidate mesenchymal ASM progenitor cell populations specifically in relation to airway remodeling. This review also highlights the current limitations in studying ASM biology, and underscores the need for novel molecular tools and markers that will refine our understanding of this cell type in lung homeostasis and disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Humans
  • Muscle, Smooth / cytology*
  • Muscle, Smooth / embryology*
  • Respiratory System / embryology*
  • Stem Cells / physiology*