ADAM33 Expression in Asthmatic Airways and Human Embryonic Lungs

Abstract

Several ADAM33 protein isoforms occur in adult bronchial smooth muscle and in human embryonic bronchi and surrounding mesenchyme, strongly suggesting its importance in smooth muscle development and/or function, which could explain its genetic association with bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The occurrence of ADAM33 in embryonic mesenchymal cells suggests that it may be involved in airway wall "modeling" that contributes to the early life origins of asthma.