ABSTRACT
Excessive airway secretion may be a common feature of a variety of diseases characterized by airways inflammation. This chapter discusses that the effect of neuropeptides on airway macromolecule secretion must, where possible, distinguish among the specific type of secretory cell as the source of the secretion and, if possible, the type of glycoconjugate measured. The neuropeptides that have been identified in airway sensory nerves include substance P, neurokinin A, neurokinin B, and calcitonin gene-related peptide. Gastrin-releasing peptide may also be contained in sensory nerves. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and VIP analogs are localized at least in part to cholinergic nerves, while neuropeptide Y is localized to adrenergic nerves. In addition to the two mechanisms of sensory nerve stimulation by which macromolecule secretion may be stimulated, it is possible that the loss of an inhibitory influence such as VIP may also be involved in disease processes. These processes may include allergic rhinitis, asthma, and chronic bronchitis.
