Pathophysiology
In primary human airway fibroblasts from sulfur mustard-exposed patients, the expression levels of TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TbR-I, and TbR-II were significantly upregulated compared to controls [PMID:23754353]. This over-expression suggests a potential role in the progression of airway remodeling characteristic of chronic fibrosis.
Diagnosis
Western blot analysis revealed markedly increased TGF-β1 protein levels in primary lung fibroblasts from chemically injured patients, indicating its potential utility as a diagnostic marker for assessing airway damage [PMID:23754353].
Management
Given the significant upregulation of TGF-β and its receptors in airway fibroblasts of sulfur mustard-exposed patients, interventions aimed at modulating TGF-β signaling could be considered for managing airway remodeling [PMID:23754353].
References
1 Mirzamani MS, Nourani MR, Imani Fooladi AA, Zare S, Ebrahimi M, Yazdani S et al.. Increased expression of transforming growth factor-β and receptors in primary human airway fibroblasts from chemical inhalation patients. Iranian journal of allergy, asthma, and immunology 2013. link
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