Activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling in pulmonary fibroblasts by TGF-β₁ is increased in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover. Recently, activation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway has been associated with abnormal ECM turnover in various chronic diseases. We determined WNT-pathway gene expression in pulmonary fibroblasts of individuals with and without COPD and disentangled the role of β-catenin in fibroblast phenotype and function.

Methods

We assessed the expression of WNT-pathway genes and the functional role of β-catenin, using MRC-5 human lung fibroblasts and primary pulmonary fibroblasts of individuals with and without COPD.

Results

Pulmonary fibroblasts expressed mRNA of genes required for WNT signaling. Stimulation of fibroblasts with TGF-β₁, a growth factor important

SUBMITTER: Baarsma HA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3184127 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature