Ciliary Movement in Nasal Epithelial Cells

ABSTRACT

The mucociliary system of the airway is composed of cilia, mucus and periciliary fluid, and plays an important role in airway defense by eliminating inhaled particles. Efficient mucociliary activity is essential for maintaining the normal physiologic functions of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. The overall propulsive effect of the mucus blanket depends upon the arrangement of cilia, the ciliary beat frequency (CBF), and their metachronal relationships (or ciliary wave disorder [CWD]). This article reviews the mechanism of CBF.