Histamine N-methyltransferase modulates human bronchial smooth muscle contraction
Author Information
Author(s): J. Tamaoki, A A. Chiyotani, E. Tagaya, K. Isono, K. Konno
Primary Institution: Tokyo Women's Medical College
Hypothesis
The study aims to elucidate the modulatory role of histamine-degrading enzymes in airway constrictor responses.
Conclusion
The histamine-degrading enzyme HMT in the airway epithelium may play a modulatory role in bronchoconstriction by metabolizing histamine.
Supporting Evidence
- Histamine N-methyltransferase (HMT) activity was significantly higher in epithelium-intact tissues compared to epithelium-denuded tissues.
- SKF 91488, an HMT inhibitor, increased contractile responses to histamine in a concentration-dependent manner.
- The study suggests that HMT plays a protective role against histamine-mediated bronchoconstriction.
Takeaway
This study found that an enzyme called HMT helps control how much histamine affects our airways, which is important for people with asthma.
Methodology
Human bronchial strips were studied under isometric conditions in vitro, with contractile responses measured after treatment with histamine and enzyme inhibitors.
Participant Demographics
Patients undergoing thoracotomies for carcinoma.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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