RESUMO
AIM: To detect the expression of IL-13 and TGF-? during airway remodeling. METHODS: A airway remodeling model was established and histological changes were detected under light or electronic microscope. In situ hybridization assays were adopted to determine the status of IL-13 and TGF-?_2 transcript in lung tissue and Western blot was used to detect the expression of p38MAPK protein. RESULTS: Proliferation of airway epithelium and smooth muscle and mucous plugs were found in lung tissue of airway remodeling mice , accompanied by infiltration of eosinophils and lymphocytes in airway. Overexpression of IL-13,TGF-?_2 mRNA and p38MAPK were also observed in airway remodeling group. CONCLUSION: Expression of IL-13, TGF-?_2 mRNA and p38MAPK protein increased significantly during airway remodeling, which may suggest an role for Th2 cytokines, TGF-?_2 in the pathogenesis of airway remodeling. p38 MAPK may be associated with the development of asthma and airway remodeling. [