Key to Mucus Modification
During an asthma attack, too much mucus in the airways makes breathing difficult. Recent research may point the way toward preventing overproduction of the sticky stuff.
The stars of the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis study - two proteins called CLCA1 and TMEM16A—aren’t new discoveries; scientists have known about both for years. What is novel about the investigation is the relationship the researchers found between the molecules and the implications that understanding their interactions could mean for the treatment of airway diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The researchers knew this much entering the study: Overabundance of CLCA1 proteins in airway cells had something to do with the body’s production of mucus, but the team of scientists didn’t know exactly what. They also knew that excess TMEM16A, a kind of cellular channel, played some sort of role in overdevelopment of mucus, but its mechanism was unclear. The team found that increasing the number of CLCA1 proteins in airway cells caused an uptick in TMEM16A proteins in neighboring cells. Researchers postulated that CLCA1 lengthens the stay of the cellular portals on the surface of the cells, allowing charged particles that contribute to mucus formation to come and go.
What do the researchers’ findings mean for individuals with airway conditions? As scientists continue experimenting with manipulating the numbers of CLCA1 and TMEM16A in airway cells and the effects they have on the movement of particles in and out of the cells, they may uncover the key to controlling mucus production.
In that case, physicians may be able to “turn off” asthma patients’ mucus-making mechanisms in the future. Even cancer and heart disease patients could benefit from a better understanding of CLCA and TMEM16 molecules’ interactions—the proteins may be involved in the development of certain types of these diseases.
These tips can help keep an asthma flare-up from ruining your good time this vacation season:
- Beware of seasonal triggers. Certain cherished summer activities, including swimming and camping, can put individuals with asthma at risk for attacks. The smell of chlorine, for example, can trigger an asthma incident; be sure the pool isn’t too pungent before you dive in. Don’t sit in the path of smoke from an outdoor fire or candle, which can also set asthma off.
- Check the climate. Headed to a humid or hazy locale? Check the weather ahead of time and plan your trip activities around muggy periods, as such conditions can aggravate asthma.
- Make a list—and check it twice. You don’t want to be caught on the road or on a plane without an asthma treatment. Before you zip your bag, check for necessary items, such as medications and a peak flow meter.
- Stick to the plan. Even though your daily routine may be different, summer is no time to deviate from the main components of your asthma action plan: knowing and avoiding your triggers and taking your medications as prescribed. Falling out of your medication regimen now could lead to asthma attacks in the months ahead.
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